June 16, 2008

Work Out


Philippians 2:12 says "Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but more more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."

Many will read this and think that it means we have to work for our salvation. Of course, this is impossible. No one can do enough good works to earn salvation. We receive salvation as a free gift from God, through Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit.

In my quiet time today, I came to a deeper realization of what this really means. It is not about following a set of rules, or keeping up with a certain code of conduct. It is about spiritual exercise. If I want to have a healthy, fit body, I have to work out physically. If I want to grow up in my salvation, and have a healthy, fit spiritual life, I have to work out my salvation.

How does one do this? Spiritual disciplines: prayer, Bible study, solitude, silence, meditate on God's Word, fasting. There are quite a few disciplines a believer in Christ can use to develop and grow - to work out their salvation.

Are you working out? Are you growing spiritually? Engage - plug into a church, a small group, a Bible study. Get into God's word and let the Holy Spirit speak to you.

Need help? Leave a comment - I'd love to give you some guidance.

1 comment:

The Via Colony said...

Josh and I did a little bike riding in Hungary. I have no idea how you do it!!! I have a new respect for riders like you=)