Message Magazine’s Online Devotional for Sabbath, February 25, 2017
Listen to “Thoughts in Worship 02.25.2017” on Spreaker.
“Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:12–13).
Get it done!
I admit that these three words may be intimidating to some in the context of our theme text. You may discern 
the hard work associated with “working out your own salvation…” and get distracted or fully derailed from your duty. However, if you read the text aright, you will soon discover the secret to holy living in what immediately follows.
The Bible says that we are to cultivate the results of our salvation, which is obeying God with deep reverence and self-distrust. God has given us the blessing of salvation through Christ, and unencumbered access to His throne for victory over every besetting sin; therefore, we must submit to the process. If we are to be saved, at last, we must surrender our wills to God. In fact, that’s what, in effect, the Bible says next. While we cultivate the results of our salvation, which is obeying God with deep reverence and self-distrust, we recognize that God is the one who energizes us and gives us the desire to do what pleases Him.
So, walk with God today and get the work He has laid out for you done. Don’t be intimidated by the work. Submit your will to God and He will give you the power and desire you need to accomplish it.
