Scripture References: Philippians 1:6; 2 Timothy 2:13; 2 Corinthians 11:23-28
Intro: Greetings! It's an honor to share today. My life verse, which anchors my walk with God through all its ups and downs, is Philippians 1:6: "I am certain that God that began a good work in you will continue that work until it is finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns." This truth—God's unwavering faithfulness—is essential, especially because, as 2 Timothy 2:13 reminds us, "if we are faithless, he remains faithful—for he cannot deny himself."
Key Points:
- God Initiates & Pursues Despite Our Wandering: Testimony begins with early conversion, followed by drifting away in teen years (partying, leaving church), leading to adult struggles (multiple divorces, addiction, disillusionment). Even in this faithless state, God used a friend who was "on fire" to draw the speaker back, demonstrating God's faithfulness to the initial "good work."
- God Confronts & Restores in Our Inconsistency: Years later, while active in church, the speaker struggled secretly with alcohol. God didn't give up but confronted the hypocrisy and idolatry (trusting alcohol for comfort over Him), inviting him back to true dependence. God remains faithful even when our outward religious activity masks inward faithlessness.
- God Revitalizes in Dry Seasons: Facing retirement and feeling purposeless ("life was over," identity lost), God unexpectedly led the speaker and his wife to attend a discipleship school intended for young adults. This unconventional step brought deep renewal, proving God isn't finished even when we feel dry, disillusioned, or "too old." He continues His work.
- God's Faithfulness Extends Through Generations: God's faithfulness isn't just personal but multi-generational. He provided grace and wisdom in difficult parenting situations (unexpected pregnancy) and is actively working in the lives of grandchildren (grandson called to be a "rescuer" in the Navy). His good work continues beyond us.
- Confidence Rooted in God's Character (Paul's Example): How could Paul write Philippians 1:6 with such certainty from prison after immense suffering (2 Cor 11)? Because his confidence wasn't in his circumstances or his own consistency, but in the character of the faithful God who started the work. God's faithfulness is our ultimate security.
Conclusion: Life involves seasons of faithfulness and faithlessness, mountain tops and valleys. But through it all, God remains utterly faithful to the good work He began in us through Christ. He initiates, pursues, confronts in love, restores, revitalizes, and sees His purposes through, even across generations. Our confidence rests entirely on His unchanging character and His promise to complete what He started.
Call to Action: Reflect on God's faithfulness throughout your own story – where have you seen Him working even when you were faithless or struggling? If you're in a dry season, battling secret sin, or feeling like God is distant or finished with you, take heart! Trust the promise of Philippians 1:6. Turn back to Him, knowing He remains faithful and desires to continue His good work in you.
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