God at Work
What is one “wonder” that God has created, for which you are especially thankful and appreciative? What about that gift from God makes you especially thankful?
In Philippians 1:3–10, the Apostle Paul expresses deep gratitude for the believers in Philippi, saying, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (v.6). This passage offers profound encouragement: God doesn’t abandon what He starts. He is actively at work in the lives of His people, shaping them to reflect Christ more fully. Whether in Scripture or in modern history, we see evidence of God’s faithful, transformative work in individuals and communities.
In Philippians 1:3–10, the Apostle Paul expresses deep gratitude for the believers in Philippi, saying, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (v.6). This passage offers profound encouragement: God doesn’t abandon what He starts. He is actively at work in the lives of His people, shaping them to reflect Christ more fully. Whether in Scripture or in modern history, we see evidence of God’s faithful, transformative work in individuals and communities.
Paul’s words come from a place of deep affection. He remembers the Philippians with joy because of their partnership in the gospel “from the first day until now” (v.5). Their love and support weren’t fleeting—they were the fruit of God’s work in them. This echoes Jesus’ teaching in John 15:16: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” God initiates the work, but He also walks with us through every stage of our spiritual journey.
We see this principle lived out in the life of Moses. Though hesitant and insecure, Moses responded to God’s call and became the leader who would deliver God’s people from Egypt. His transformation – from shepherd to prophet, from reluctant speaker to bold intercessor – was entirely due to God's persistent work in his life. Moses' growth didn’t happen overnight, but God never gave up on him.
Fast forward to the New Testament, and we find Peter, a man of passion who often spoke before thinking. He denied Jesus three times, yet in Acts, we find him boldly preaching at Pentecost. What changed? The same God who began a good work in Peter continued to shape him, refining his character and empowering him through the Holy Spirit.
God’s work isn't limited to biblical times. Take William Wilberforce, the 18th-century British politician whose deep Christian faith led him to fight tirelessly against the transatlantic slave trade. His decades-long campaign faced immense opposition, yet he persevered because he believed that God was at work not only in his heart but in the world. Just three days before his death, Parliament passed the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833. The good work God began in Wilberforce bore fruit that changed history.
We see this principle lived out in the life of Moses. Though hesitant and insecure, Moses responded to God’s call and became the leader who would deliver God’s people from Egypt. His transformation – from shepherd to prophet, from reluctant speaker to bold intercessor – was entirely due to God's persistent work in his life. Moses' growth didn’t happen overnight, but God never gave up on him.
Fast forward to the New Testament, and we find Peter, a man of passion who often spoke before thinking. He denied Jesus three times, yet in Acts, we find him boldly preaching at Pentecost. What changed? The same God who began a good work in Peter continued to shape him, refining his character and empowering him through the Holy Spirit.
God’s work isn't limited to biblical times. Take William Wilberforce, the 18th-century British politician whose deep Christian faith led him to fight tirelessly against the transatlantic slave trade. His decades-long campaign faced immense opposition, yet he persevered because he believed that God was at work not only in his heart but in the world. Just three days before his death, Parliament passed the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833. The good work God began in Wilberforce bore fruit that changed history.
Even today, we witness stories of transformation. Former addicts become counselors, victims of injustice become advocates for change, and ordinary people step into extraordinary callings, thousands respond to needs following natural disasters. These stories testify to God’s ongoing work; transforming weakness into strength, sorrow into purpose, and brokenness into beauty.
Paul’s prayer in Philippians 1 concludes with a longing: “that your love may abound more and more...filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God” (vv.9–11). God’s work in us is not only for our good but for the good of others and ultimately for His glory. If you’re discouraged or feel unfinished, take heart. The God who began a good work in you is not done. Trust His timing, submit to His shaping, and remember—He always finishes what He starts. He may have started shaping you long ago but He is busy at work in your life in the here and now!
Closing Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, we give You thanks for the people you place in our lives, both far and near. With joy we lift up the needs and concerns of these wonderful people. We thank you for faithful believers who strengthen us in our faith, encouraging us to share that faith with others. We thank you and affirm You are truth and that You are always with us, molding us to be Your servants. We will always be “works in progress” and we know that You will continue Your work in us until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. May our love, like Yours, overflow more and more, as we grow, learn, understand, and share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Adapted from Philippians 1:3-10
Closing Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, we give You thanks for the people you place in our lives, both far and near. With joy we lift up the needs and concerns of these wonderful people. We thank you for faithful believers who strengthen us in our faith, encouraging us to share that faith with others. We thank you and affirm You are truth and that You are always with us, molding us to be Your servants. We will always be “works in progress” and we know that You will continue Your work in us until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. May our love, like Yours, overflow more and more, as we grow, learn, understand, and share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Adapted from Philippians 1:3-10
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