The Process of Sanctification

Philippians 2:12 AMP

“So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ.”

This passage is telling us to actively live out the salvation that God has placed within us, It is a work of weeding out the bad and cultivating in us what pleases God. It is the work of sanctification that will work in us our entire lives. No one is perfect and we did not become perfect at salvation, we were forgiven. At that point the Holy Spirit begins a work in us to bring us to maturity and completion.

When there was testimony time in the Pentecostal church as a child, some saints would stand and say, “I’m saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Spirit.” Well part of that was correct, we are saved, and the Holy Spirit does live within us, but this sanctification will take us through changes our entire lives. Changes to be more like our Savior, but still our unique selves.

“With fear and trembling“. This phrase refers to a sincere reverence and awe for God, not a fear of judgment or an anxiety that we will be punished. It is a humble respect for God’s holiness and power, which motivates us to take our spiritual walk seriously. 

Prayer:

Lord, I trust my life to You, lead me in the paths of righteousness. Lead me to become more like You. Make me the best of who you want me to be. In Your name Lord Jesus, Amen!