Read: 
Philippians 2:12-13

SOAP: Philippians 2:12-13

"So then, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, continue working out your salvation with awe and reverence, for the one bringing forth in you both the desire and the effort—for the sake of his good pleasure—is God."

The God Who Works Within Us

Friend, God is always at work in your life, even when you don’t realize it. While we’re called to intentionally pursue our faith, it’s God Himself who works within us. He is the One giving us both the desire and the strength to live according to His Will.

Staying connected to Jesus, the Vine, and allowing God to transform you is what it means to abide. Abiding isn’t about perfection or instant change. It’s about daily surrendering to God’s Work within, trusting that He is Faithful to complete what He started. As we stay close to Jesus, we start to see our desires shift, our hearts soften, and our lives begin to bear the Fruit of His Spirit. Every moment spent in His Word, every prayer whispered, and every act of surrender are part of that incredible process.

While the Bible calls us to "continue working out your salvation,” it also makes it clear that the only reason we are able to do so is because God makes it possible. He knows that we are utterly helpless without Him, unable to produce any Fruit at all. What He asks of us is to admit our own weakness, then, in faith, ask Him to provide everything we need in order to fight sin and live a victorious Christian life.

God is both the Source and Sustainer of our faith. As we remain in Him, He works through us, producing Fruit that will last, bringing Glory to Him and blessings to others.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for working in me, shaping my heart, and giving me the strength to live according to Your Will. Help me to abide in You each day and bear Fruit that honors You. Amen.