The inspired Apostle Paul wrote:
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;” (Philippians 2:12)
That phrase “work out” is very interesting in the Greek New Testament.
“The verb “work out” carries the meaning of “work to full completion,” such as working out a problem in mathematics. In Paul’s day it was also used for “working a mine,” that is, getting out of the mine all the valuable ore possible; or “working a field” so as to get the greatest harvest possible. The purpose God wants us to achieve is Christlikeness, “to be conformed to the image of his Son” (Rom. 8: 29). There are problems in life, but God will help us to “work them out.” Our lives have tremendous potential, like a mine or a field, and He wants to help us fulfill that potential.” (Warren Wiersbe, Be Joyful: Even When Things Go Wrong You Can Have Joy-NT Commentary Philippians, 74 (Kindle Edition); Colorado Springs, CO; David C Cook)
The Christian has access to all spiritual blessings in Christ (I.e., in his relationship with Christ found in the church-Ephesians 1:3). The blessings (such as greater love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control-Galatians 5::22-23, etc.) are all within our grasp. Thanks to Jesus, we own the mine! But we have to be willing to dig to uncover these spiritual blessings. We work-not to get salvation-but to more fully discover and apply the benefits of the salvation we already enjoy.
Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
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