Philippians 1:6-7 - Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace.
Reflection
Paul’s words in Philippians 1:6-7 offer a profound assurance to believers. He reminds us that God is not only the initiator of our faith but also the one who sustains and completes His work in us. This truth is a source of great encouragement, especially in moments when we feel weak, uncertain, or discouraged in our spiritual journey.The phrase "He who has begun a good work in you" speaks to the transformative power of salvation. When we come to Christ, we are not merely forgiven—we are made new. God begins a process of shaping us into the image of His Son, refining our character, deepening our faith, and strengthening our walk with Him. This work is not dependent on our own strength or ability but on His faithfulness.
Paul’s confidence in God’s work is unwavering. He does not say that God might complete His work or that He could finish it if we do our part. He declares with certainty that God will complete it. This is a promise, not a possibility. No matter how many times we stumble, no matter how often we feel inadequate, God is still at work. He does not abandon His children or leave His work unfinished. Paul also expresses his deep affection for the Philippians, acknowledging their partnership in grace. Despite his imprisonment, he sees them as fellow partakers in the gospel. This reminds us that God’s work in us is not an isolated process—it is something we experience in community. We are strengthened by the encouragement, prayers, and fellowship of other believers.
Personal Application
There are times when we may feel stagnant in our faith, wondering if we are truly growing or if God is still working in us. We may struggle with doubts, failures, or seasons of spiritual dryness. Yet, Philippians 1:6 assures us that God’s work is ongoing. He does not start something and then abandon it. He is faithful to complete what He has begun.
Think about your own spiritual journey. Have there been moments when you felt distant from God, unsure of His presence or direction? Perhaps you have faced trials that made you question whether you were truly growing in faith. In those moments, remember that God is still working. His process is not always visible, but it is always active.
Consider how you can trust in God’s faithfulness in your daily life. Are there areas where you need to surrender control, allowing Him to shape and refine you? Are there struggles where you need to remind yourself that He is not finished with you yet? Trusting in His promise means walking forward with confidence, knowing that He is leading you toward completion.
One practical way to embrace this truth is through prayer and reflection. Take time each day to acknowledge God’s work in your life. Thank Him for the ways He has already transformed you, and ask Him to continue His refining process. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage you and remind you of His faithfulness. Another way to live out this promise is by extending grace to others. Just as God is patient with us, we are called to be patient with those around us. Recognizing that He is working in others just as He is working in us allows us to approach relationships with love, understanding, and encouragement.
Prayer
Father, Thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. You have begun a good work in me, and I trust that You will bring it to completion. Even in moments of doubt, struggle, or uncertainty, I know that You are still working, shaping me into the person You have called me to be. Help me to rest in Your promise, knowing that my growth is not dependent on my own strength but on Your grace. Teach me to surrender my fears and failures to You, trusting that You are refining me for Your purpose. Lord, I ask for patience and perseverance in my journey. When I feel discouraged, remind me of Your unwavering love. When I struggle to see progress, help me to trust in Your timing. May my life be a testimony of Your transforming power, reflecting Your goodness to those around me. Thank You for never giving up on me. I place my confidence in You, knowing that Your work in me is far from finished. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written by Sarah Fry-Leasure
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