Philippians: A Study for TeensSample

The Good Work of God

By Alex Hintze

“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”—Philippians 1:6

What is the good work of God?

God's good work starts with our salvation through grace and continues with our sanctification into holiness. It’s the process that saves our souls from eternal death, secures our future of eternal life, and continues with our spiritual growth as we mature as children of God who love Him and bear the fruit of righteousness. There’s much more to be said about this, but let’s break down this encouragement from Paul concerning the work of God in our lives.

“Being confident of this . . .”

From the start, Paul assures us of his personal confidence in God’s ability and faithfulness to transform a life. He saw God work in his own life, transforming him from the guy that killed Christians to the guy that boldly proclaimed the gospel of Christ. Do we also have this confidence in God?

“He who has begun . . .”

The work of God in us is not initiated by us. We did nothing to make God start working on our behalf. No amount of “trying to be a good person” ever caused God to say, “Wow, I’m impressed. I guess I’ll save them now. They’ve earned it.” The overwhelming love of God is that He chooses us while we’re still sinners. He saves us by grace through faith and immediately imparts His Spirit to us, giving us new life.

“A good work in you . . .”

How can Paul say God’s work is good after being put in prison for preaching the gospel? Because he knew being adopted by God was the most incredible event to ever happen. We, who were once orphans and in rebellion against God, were able to receive God's full acceptance and love. This beautiful, life-giving love is given to us freely. So, despite any troubles we face, if God is working in us, it has to be a good work because He loves us.

“Will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

Why does God’s work take so long? Being patient for God’s work to take place in our lives can be hard. It’s a process that takes a whole lifetime as there are no shortcuts to perfection. We need to trust that little by little, He’s working on us. If we open our eyes, we’ll begin to see the things He’s currently doing in our lives.

Pause: Stop and meditate on the truth that the same God who created all things is working in you. He chose you. Rest knowing that He accepts you and works in you with joy.

Practice: Encourage someone about the good work God is doing in them, just as Paul did with the Philippians. Tell them how you see God working in them. This could sound something like, “I see that God is making you ____.”

Pray: Lord Jesus, how humbling it is to know that You have chosen us to do Your good work. I believe in Your power and faithfulness to finish what You start. Forgive me for the moments when I doubt You. Please continue to transform me by grace into a mature son/daughter. Give me eyes to see You at work in me and in those around me. Amen.