God at Work in Us and Through Us

Published June 30, 2026
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God at Work in Us and Through Us

June 30, 2026.

Scripture: Philippians 2:12–16
God works within His people so they can live faithfully and shine clearly.

Imagine This…

Imagine a lamp plugged into nothing.

It may be well designed. It may be placed in the right room. It may even look beautiful. But without power, it cannot shine.

Many Christians try to live the mission of Jesus like an unplugged lamp — working hard, trying harder, and slowly burning out.

Philippians 2 gives us better news.

What Is There to Learn?

Paul tells believers to “work out” their salvation because God is the One working in them.
Christian obedience is active, but it is not self-powered.

     
  1. God Works In Us.
    He shapes our desires, strengthens our obedience, and gives us power beyond ourselves.
    2.  
  2. We Respond Responsibly.
    Grace does not make us passive. We participate in what God is producing in us.
    3.  
  3. Our Witness Shines Through Our Spirit.
    Paul specifically mentions grumbling and arguing. In a cynical world, humble faithfulness becomes visible light.

Bold Steps of Faith

Choose one place where your attitude may be dimming your witness.

     
  • Replace grumbling with prayer.
    •  
  • Replace criticism with encouragement.
    •  
  • Replace defensiveness with humility.
    •  
  • Replace spiritual pressure with dependence on God.

You do not shine because life is easy. You shine because God is working in you.

Reflection Questions

     
  1. Where am I most tempted to grumble or grow cynical?
    2.  
  2. How might my attitude be affecting my witness?
    3.  
  3. What would it look like to depend on God’s power this week?

Prayer

“Father, work in me so You can work through me. Help my words, attitude, and actions shine with the hope of Jesus.”

――

Pastor Brad Little