SCRIPTURE //
So, in light of what’s true, work it out, the implications of this truth, wrestle with it as a desperate man looking for a way out – wrestle it out with God not alone. Philippians 2:12
OBSERVATION //
Paul, the old wise guy, who must have fought hard to figure the implications of his faith to be able to write like this, is calling you and me out to do the same. Jesus’ New Covenant which opened up true intimacy with God the Father, a role model, mentor, and Friend in Jesus, and ever Present Sage and Advocate in the Spirit.
Paul is saying to get clear on the implications of what it means to you to be this beloved son on whom the favor of God rests. No one else can or will work it out for you. Not even God Himself. This “working it out” is not something you do alone, rather;
- it is you alone
- it is alone with God
- it is alone with a few trusted allies
The IT is just how you are going to live this one time on this planet. This one time in this Epic life, framed by the Christian Worldview. After all, Jesus framed His life and ministry on a view of the world; i.e. what is going on. It is this Christian Worldview and your place in it that we must work out. The stakes are too high to drift, sleep in late, or remain a child.
APPLICATION //
For me it is about purpose, pace, and keeping on track.
I find my purpose framed in my Life Plan. It articulates the Christian Worldview, my place in it, and how I live out my purpose.
I pace myself by daily monitoring the condition of my soul and adjusting as needed.
I keep on track by regularly reviewing my Life Plan, calendar, and weekly to do list and adjust as needed. I regularly review daily with God in my quiet time and frequently during the week with a few trusted allies.
Sounds like I have it dialed in, I don’t, but it is my plan and I have rhythm in my soul to keep at it.
PRAYER //
Father thank You for how You captured my attention with this verse this morning and helped me to remember what’s true – that it’s up to me to sit with You in the darkness, to grouse around, and find The Way out! [Remembering the story of the guy thrown in the pit because of his misbehaving.]
I will press on. Tell myself what is true. Put on the spiritual armor You have provided. Be courageous. Embrace this one time on the planet as fully as I can.
How to SOAP //
HOW TO SOAP This simple format will help you know God better, become confident reading and applying the Bible, and help you become a better human. It was created by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro.