Working For or Working Out

What does it mean to "work out your salvation"?

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (Philippians 2:12-13)

Paul was speaking of continually working to bring something to fulfillment or completion in this text and was not referring to salvation by works. Many people think Paul is saying work for salvation. But the apostle was saying that our salvation experience isn't the end of our spiritual journey but the catalyst that turns on "operation mode."  "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Once you have trusted Jesus as Savior, you can begin living out what He's given you, which is His abundant life. If you've given your heart to Him, the Holy Spirit now indwells you—He is with you forever. It is God's Spirit working in and through you that empowers you to live out your salvation. The degree to which you yield to Him impacts the work He'll achieve through you and the changes He will effect in  your life. As your faithful relationship with the Lord developes, you will begin to notice Him moving in your life. As we share our faith with others, we will notice God working through even more avenues in our life. Keep following Him, and you will see the seeds he's planted within you flourish. (Isaiah 55:10-11) So when it says we're to "work out [our] salvation," it means we need to reverently live out what's already been given to us—and allow the life of Christ to come fully to fruition. 

The salvation that we have been given should become an expression of Jesus' life wherever we are. Working it out with our friends and family, and others around us. Being the light to the world, being the salt that impacts others. (Matthew 5:13-16)


Lord help us to be the salt and light the world needs to see of your grace and mercy that brings us salvation. It is in this that we work out our salvation. Thank you for the gift of redemption through your Son Jesus Christ. We love you and praise you. In Jesus name we pray. Amen