The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Philippians 2:12-13, “So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling;

13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”

Joining the military is a serious undertaking. I can remember some young men, who looked upon joining the military as something of a lark. They laughed and bragged about being soldier, or sailors, pilots or marines. It was a good show for the girls they wanted to impress, but it was also an external demonstration that clouded over the fear and uncertainty they felt inside. Deep down, they knew that war was serious business!

The Apostle Paul is telling the Philippian Christians that their having accepted Christ Jesus as their Savior was serious business, too. You’ve paid attention to what I’ve said while I am here; see that you do it even more so when I’m gone. “Work out your salvation…” he said. What did he mean? Paul was NOT saying that their work could or would produce their salvation. It was the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ alone that had brought them salvation. Then what did Paul mean?

He meant that the Philippians (and all believers) are to allow the Spirit of God to produce and demonstrate to others the newness of the spiritual life. When we sin, we quickly repent. We say Jesus is our Savior and LORD, so show we must show it in our lifestyle. We say we’ve renounced the old life with evil companions and sinful practices; prove it by a clean and lasting break and new companions. Salvation begins with accepting Jesus; it then demonstrates in us His Life as being lived through us.

We believers did not save ourselves. We trusted Christ Jesus, and He saved us. Now, as believers, we have the Holy Spirit living within us, and the Spirit is working to make our lives like Jesus’ Life. We’d sure look more like Him if we let the Spirit have His way. What do you say? Let’s give it a try! Repent of each and every ungodly thought and practice that you have. Think Heavenly thoughts every day. Show Christian Love to those who don’t know what it’s all about. Don’t worry about not doing well. The Holy Spirit is always within you to help.

May the love and blessing of Jesus be yours daily!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”