Philippians 2:12-18

Philippians 2:12-18 NIV
 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, ¹³ for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

This is NOT a works salvation.  When we first believe in Christ we truly are clueless of how to live our walk with Him.  Working out our salvation is not EARNING it, but LEARNING what it entails.  Also note vs 13.  It is God who works in us and changes us.  When we fail it not his fault, but just one more proof that He is not done with us yet.

 ¹⁴ Do everything without grumbling or arguing, ¹⁵ so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky ¹⁶ as you hold firmly to the word of life.  And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

Look around you.  Everywhere people grumble and argue about most everything.  If you follow this instruction you will shine because you will be so different.   This difference in you life will be noticed and people will want to know why and how.  This will provide opportunity to share the gospel.  Your testimony will be trustworthy because the difference in you life was evident BEFORE testimony was given.

 ¹⁷ But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. ¹⁸ So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Paul was not sure if he would leave prison alive.  He was prepared to be a martyr of that was what God required of him.  He still rejoiced in the faith of the church at Phillipe.  We could learn from this that we too can rejoice in the victories of others. 

God Bless.