Not In Your Own Strength

Philippians 2:12-14 ~ The Amplified Bible

 Therefore, my dear ones, as you have always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent, work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling self-distrust, ^{with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ).}

 ^{[Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.}

 ^{Do all things without grumbling and faultfinding and complaining [against God] and questioning and doubting [among yourselves].}

 ^{I especially appreciate Paul's practicality in this portion of Scripture.  His directives are clear and to the point.  We know that Paul found great humility after living a big part of his life as a very pride filled man.  He reminds us to carefully work out our salvation with humility and reverence.  Everyone's journey to meet and grow in the Lord is different.  What matters is that we each stay true to the voice of the Holy Spirit and integrity of our own hearts through trials and victory.}