When No One is Watching

Philippians 2:12

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 (NIV)

Good morning ladies,

As we continued on in our study of Philippians we had the opportunity to discuss this verse at length Tuesday night.

“Why do you think that Paul said it was more important for them to continue to work out their salvation in his absence?” I asked.

“Because”, was the very insightful reply, “if a person works on their salvation when no one is around then you know they are doing it because they want to work on their relationship with God.”

Duh!

It’s funny I have looked at that verse a hundred times and never saw that.

Of course Paul would want them to work on their relationship with God more when he was not around. That would show they really valued it.

I can go to lunch with a health conscious friend and for one meal eat healthy. But as soon as we part ways I am up to my old tricks because eating healthy is only important to me when they are around.

And people can value their relationship with God when they are around the Bible teacher and the pastor but return to their old ways when they are alone.

If you know you are susceptible to getting off track, to skipping your quiet time and not studying your Bible then find a friend, someone you trust, and someone who will hold you accountable. And be honest.

Eventually you will want to do it for yourself.

Working on your relationship with God only on Sunday is about as effective as eating one healthy meal a week.

Love,
Jill