In the book of Philippians, we find a powerful letter of encouragement written by the Apostle Paul to a church he deeply loved. As we explore chapter 2, verses 12-18, we discover five key encouragements that, when brought together, form a beautiful message about persevering in faith despite challenges.
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How do we remain faithful during times of separation?
Paul begins by acknowledging the Philippians’ faithfulness when he was with them, then emphasizes that it’s “even more important” now that he’s away. Paul was writing from prison, uncertain if he would ever see this beloved church again. Despite this separation, he urges them to continue in their faith.
This speaks powerfully to us today. When leaders or mentors we’ve relied on move on, we can feel discouraged or uncertain. But our faith should never depend on any person except Jesus Christ. The convictions God has placed in our hearts and the ways He has worked in our lives remain true regardless of who is physically present with us.
What does it mean to “work out your salvation”?
Paul encourages the Philippians to “work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear.” This isn’t about earning salvation or becoming worthy of God’s grace. Rather, it’s about living in a way that reflects the rescue we’ve already received.
Salvation literally means “rescue” – something that happens to you, not something you earn. Like a snowboarder who was once buried in snow and rescued by a passing skier, we’ve been rescued by Jesus. We don’t earn this rescue; it’s a gift of grace. But in response to being rescued, we can live differently because of what happened to us.
How does God help us live out our salvation?
The beautiful truth follows in verse 13: “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.” This should bring tremendous relief! We’re not alone in trying to live out our salvation. God Himself works with us, giving us both the desire and the ability to please Him.
One commentary explains it well: “Both divine enablement and human responsibility are involved in getting God’s work done. Believers are partners with God, laboring together with Him.”
We still have responsibilities – we must choose obedience – but we’re not doing it alone. God is with us every step of the way.
Why should Christians avoid complaining and arguing?
Paul then addresses behaviors that might seem innocent but can significantly impact others: “Do everything without complaining and arguing so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.”
This echoes the Israelites’ behavior during their exodus from Egypt. Despite being rescued from slavery, they constantly complained – about food, water, leadership, and challenges. Their grumbling was so severe they began thinking slavery was better than freedom!
Paul encourages us to be different. This doesn’t mean we can’t communicate when something needs addressing, but there’s a significant difference between constructive communication and unproductive complaining.
Why avoid these behaviors? For two reasons:
- So no one can criticize you
- Because the world is watching
As believers, we represent Christ and His community. When we complain and argue like everyone else, it becomes difficult to reflect Christ’s light in a dark world. How can we demonstrate the difference Jesus makes if our speech and actions mirror the world’s?
How important is it to cling to Jesus?
Paul concludes with a powerful encouragement: “Hold firmly to the word of life.” The Philippians faced real persecution for their faith, similar to what many believers experience worldwide today. Amid persecution, temptation, and distraction, Paul – himself imprisoned and facing possible execution – urges them to cling to Jesus.
He assures them that their faithfulness has eternal significance. Even if Paul dies for his faith, he will rejoice knowing his work wasn’t in vain. Their continued faith proves the gospel’s power and progress.
This encouragement transcends time to reach us today: Cling to Jesus amid persecution, distraction, and confusion. Remain faithful, knowing your endurance ripples into eternity and brings joy to those who’ve gone before us.
Life Application
These five encouragements – remain faithful despite separation, live differently because of your salvation, remember God works with you, refrain from complaining, and cling to Jesus – combine to form a powerful message for today’s church: Keep going. Endure in faith.
Despite disappointments, frustrations, or discouragement, God is still working. He still has a plan. The gospel remains powerful and worth pursuing.
Ask yourself:
- Is my faith dependent on a person or on Jesus Christ?
- How am I living differently because of the salvation I’ve received?
- In what areas do I need to rely more on God’s power rather than my own?
- How might my complaining or arguing be dimming my witness for Christ?
- What practical steps can I take this week to “hold firmly to the word of life”?
This week, choose one area where you’ve been struggling to endure. Commit it to God, remembering that He is working with you, giving you both the desire and power to please Him. His gospel is still worth it, and He is still present and worth pursuing.