The Energizer!

Paul, as he was trying to encourage faithfulness in the brethren at Philippi, made the statement:
“for it is GOD WHO WORKS IN YOU, both to will and to work FOR HIS GOOD PLEASURE.” ( Philippians 2:13 ESV)

The Greek word translated “works” here is “energon”. Does that bring to mind our word “energy”? As we commit ourselves to God’s works we need to ALLOW HIM TO ENERGIZE us. Now, that does not mean we sit and wait for Him to start “strong arming” us around. His works can only be done and brought to completion by His power as we co-operate with Him. God is working, but we work too. For example, consider working with scissors. What does the cutting? The scissors. However, who supplies the power? The one holding the scissors. One way to picture ourselves involved in God’s works is that we are the tools in His hand EMPOWERED BY HIM to continue His work.

Let me share the passage with you again from the New Living Translation:
“For God is working in you, GIVING YOU THE DESIRE TO OBEY HIM AND THE POWER TO DO WHAT PLEASES HIM.”

Perseverance and steadfastness in the work of God is possible as HE ENERGIZES us to carry out His will. Though some tasks may be tougher than others, He has not asked us to do anything He will not ENABLE or EMPOWER us to do. He is the ENERGIZER to truly keep us going, and going, and going....

Have a great day ENERGIZED BY GOD FOR HIS WORKS!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 08/26/1998, (Edited some and passage has been changed to ESV)]

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