Back to Obedience

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

We are being taught in this passage to obey God not only while people are watching but all the time especially when you think no one is watching; God is always watching. The second verse is telling me that the reason why we follow God is because we want to. Being saved is about abandoning who we were and grasping onto our identity, God's beloved and showered with grace. We need to work it out in our own hearts so that we really want to do God's work. That's God's love... it's more than sacrificial, it's choosing because it pleases Him.

I've been tested greatly these past few months as I'm trying to discipline myself with academics. This past weekend's message by Pastor Wayne was so fitting for my life because I was reminded that I need to get back to my devotions because I can see my life becoming uglier by the day. I'm not responding out of love and I'm finding ways in my heart to distance myself from being like Jesus. I'm doing things based off of my own strengths; God cannot be made strong because of my failures. I need to focus my life back on Christ, with fear and trembling.

Lord God, thank You for making Your home in me. I cannot begin to express my appreciation for all Your wonderful works. Forgive me for making excuses and trying to take matters into my own hands. I re-commit my life to You O' God and want to serve You well. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen!