Philippians 2:12–13

Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

If you have given your life to Christ, confessed your sins and received his forgiveness then you have the gift of salvation. This is the amazing good news that Paul was so desperate to share. But he was equally concerned that his readers should understand that they now had work to do. The situation is much the same as in marriage. Getting married is just the start of the journey.

Advertising always reveals a great deal about a society. These days we often hear products being promoted because they will offer us a quick and effortless route to making life easier, smoother, happier and more fulfilled. It’s very tempting to speak of the Christian life in the same way. But it would be a lie. I have not the slightest doubt that living for Christ is the most wonderful and fulfilling life that exists here on earth. But nowhere does Paul ever suggest that following Christ requires no effort, pain or hard work.

I fully recognise that hard work doesn’t sound very attractive, but we should never fear it. Jesus once invited his followers to take on his yoke, explaining “my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light” (Matthew 11:30). A yoke is simply a wooden beam normally used between a pair of oxen or other animals to enable them to pull together on a load when working in pairs. Jesus didn’t deny that his followers would have burdens to bear, but he made the incredible promise that as they took his yoke they would “find rest” for their souls (Matthew 11:29). I know exactly what Jesus means. Over the years I have seen many people working incredibly hard for God in this country and around the world and it has been beautiful to see their peace and contentment because they have done their work yoked to Jesus.

Question

What is the hard work that God is calling you to do?

Prayer

Thank you, Lord Jesus, that as we accept your yoke we find perfect rest. Amen

Released on 8 Sep 2024