A good work

Verse: Philippians 1:4-6
Context: Philippians 1:1-11

As I begin the study of God's promises, I see there are many promises that we may not recognize initially as promises. The promises do not always have an obvious structure of instruction followed by a promise resulting from obedience. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a clear example of such a clear one. Rather some promises are truths regarding the nature of faith or character of God.

Early in Paul's letter to the Philippians he greets them by telling them how he remembers them in his prayers and is thankful for them. Paul states his faith that God who began a good work in the believers in Philippi will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. This is a promise regarding the nature of God's gift of faith to us that is real today.

A first highlight from this passage is that God is the one who begins his good work in our lives. We may remember a moment when we trusted him with our life as Lord, but ultimately only his grace was sufficient to bring us to the point of repentance and faith. The promise that follows is a powerful encouragement to all believers.

God did not author our faith for it to be devoid of any value. Regardless of the state of our lives, whether in health or illness, wealth or need, clear purpose or uncertainty, we can be sure that he has a purpose for our lives that interweaves with the tapestry of his will for humanity. He will carry on his purpose in our lives until completion when we meet him.

Personally, this is a great reassurance. I may make plans, many of which seem good in my eyes and in line with God's will, yet even those do not always turn out as planned. The failure of our plans to become reality does not negate God's will in our lives.

Russia trip
The reality of this promise hit close to home when I went on a mission trip to Russia. I began feeling ill on the 8 hour bus ride from the airport to our destination. I couldn't help but struggle with questioning why after I spent much money and time to do what seemed to be right and good could I become ill. The illness did prevent me from joining the group one day; I lay in bed that day wondering this thought. The obvious answer came to me. I am wasting energy questioning why I became ill and missed that day. I am only responsible for being obedient and prepared to act when possible, but ultimately God's will happens and supercedes any plans of ours. The promise applies that even when we cannot understand our current situation God is working to make us into a good work.

The story has a good ending. I became well quickly and was active during the rest of the trip. The visit created many memories with the locals.