Scripture References: Philippians 2:12-16; Romans 7:15-25; Acts 16:16-34; Habakkuk 3:17-19
Intro: Welcome back to our series "Living in the Tensions." We often experience the Christian life as "ups and downs" based on circumstances or feelings. But Philippians 2:12-16 invites us into a different rhythm: the "ins and outs." God working in us, and us working out our salvation. Let's explore how to live this more consistent, fruitful life.
Key Points:
- Work Out What God Works In (v. 12-13): "Continue to work out your salvation... for it is God who works in you to will and to act..." This isn't working for salvation (it's a gift), but actively applying, expressing, and bringing to completion the new life God has already put within us. It's a divine-human partnership. Milk the value out of your salvation!
- The Goal: Shine Like Stars (v. 14-16): Paul links working out our salvation to doing everything "without grumbling or arguing." Why? So we become "blameless and pure... without fault," shining like stars in a dark generation as we hold out the word of life. Our transformed lives are persuasive witnesses (like Paul in prison - Acts 16).
- Internal Power, Not External Pressure (v. 12): Paul notes the Philippians obeyed even more in his absence. Lasting change comes from God's internal work (Holy Spirit), not just external pressures (people watching, church rules). Relying only on external pressure leads to inconsistent "ups and downs." Seek inner transformation.
- Healthy Fear of God (v. 12): "Work out... with fear and trembling." This isn't cowering terror, but reverent awe and respect for God (Lion and Lamb). It's fearing straying from Him. This healthy fear combats casualness, motivates obedience, and paradoxically frees us from lesser fears. Don't treat God's commands as mere suggestions.
- Conquer Complaint, Choose Rejoicing (v. 14): Grumbling justifies resignation ("It's not fair," "No one appreciates me," "Nothing changes," "Not good enough"). Instead, Paul calls for rejoicing. Rejoicing, for the believer, is often a choice based on God's unchanging character and work, not just a feeling based on circumstances (Hab 3:17-19). Humble yourself, communicate needs vulnerably instead of complaining, and choose joy in the Lord.
Conclusion: Moving from inconsistent "ups and downs" to the steady "ins and outs" of Christian living involves actively partnering with the God who works in us. This requires relying on His internal power, cultivating a healthy fear of the Lord, conquering complaint through humility and vulnerability, and choosing to rejoice in Him above our circumstances.
Call to Action: Embrace the "in and out" partnership: cooperate with God's work in you by working out your salvation. Rely on the Spirit's internal power. Cultivate reverence for God. Fast from grumbling this week; instead, practice expressing unmet longings vulnerably. Choose to rejoice in the Lord as an act of faith, regardless of feelings. Find accountability.
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