“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Philippians 2:12-13 (NIV)
In Philippians 2:8, we see Jesus’ ultimate obedience to the will of the Father, even to the point of death on the cross. This profound act of submission sets the example for us as followers of Christ. Paul encourages us to be obedient followers of the Son, not to earn our salvation, but to live out the salvation that has been freely given to us.
Working out our salvation does not mean we are working to earn it. Salvation is a gift from God, given through grace. Instead, it means showing reverence and humility before God, who has delivered us. It means going into the world as His hands, feet, and mouth, carrying the love and light of Christ with us.
We are called to do good works with our hands. These acts of service—serving at a food bank, visiting the sick and prisoners, or volunteering at the L Street Mission—are tangible expressions of Christ’s love for those around us.
With our feet, we are to go where God leads us, whether to our neighbors, our community or even to distant places where His love is needed. For those who may not be physically able to go, supporting and encouraging others who can is equally valuable.
With our mouths, we are to share the good news of Jesus Christ. This could be through conversations with friends, teaching in Sunday school, or simply offering words of encouragement and hope to those in need.
Even though our physical bodies may limit us, we can still serve as God’s instruments of love. For those with mobility challenges and those with sight, hearing, and speech impairments, being Christ’s hands, feet, and mouth take on unique and equally essential forms.
Those with mobility issues can offer their time and presence through phone calls, writing letters, or using technology to connect with and encourage others. They can also be mighty prayer warriors, lifting the needs of others to God.
Those with sight impairments can share their faith and encouragement through words and actions, demonstrating resilience and trust in God. They can also participate in community activities that do not require sight, such as prayer groups or audio-based ministries.
Those who are deaf or mute can communicate God’s love through sign language, written messages, or by being a supportive presence in their communities. They can also engage in ministries that utilize their unique abilities, such as interpreting for others or creating visual art that glorifies God.
In our salvation, we have become new creations, aligned with God’s will and seeking to do what pleases Him. This transformation is ongoing as we continually grow in our faith and obedience.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of salvation, freely given through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to live out this salvation with reverence and humility, seeking to be Your hands, feet, and mouth in the world. Guide us to do good works, share the good news, and pray for those in need. Transform us daily into new creations, aligned with Your will and seeking to do what pleases You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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