Devotion for Monday, May 3, 2021

“So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12-13).

The whole of our salvation is wrapped up in this simple sentence.  Work as if it depended upon you, but never forget it is the Lord who saves and empowers you.  Live with and for Him in a loving relationship now and forever.  What lover counts what is done?  Do not lovers willingly and delightedly do for the other?  The Lord is working in you or you would not be reading about Him.  But you must do your part or you are not receiving Him.

Lord, this sentence is so profound, but it is truth.  Just as you cannot have belief without faith, so also you cannot have salvation without You and the cross and me and my acceptance and living into all that this means.  Help me to not separate these two, but to live them in the way You know they need to be lived.  Guide me ever deeper into the mystery of the salvation which You have purchased for me from the cross.

Lord Jesus, without You there is no salvation.  But I am a living and thinking being who has my part to do.  Lead me, O Lord, to live the life You have given me to live.  Help me to be fervent in action, dependent on Your power, and humble in all things.  May I be found both active and looking to You at all times, and for all things.  Lead me in prayer and guide me into Your truth.  Help me to live out the faith You have given me.  Amen.