We all know what it is like to desire to finish what we have started. This is especially true when we strive to obtain some level of competence in an area. When we reach a goal, the sense of accomplishment is profound, but the journey toward it is often fraught with challenges. Paul, writing about his spiritual growth, captures this beautifully when he says, “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own” (Philippians 3:12).
Paul’s journey, marked by his honest struggles and imperfections, resonates with our own. He, like us, is still grappling with the challenges of this fallen world, wrestling with temptations and falling short. The entire finished work of his transformation remains in the future. However, Paul presses on to obtain Christlikeness. After all, Christ gave it all for him. How could he do any less for Christ?
At the heart of our journey is a delicate balance between faith and works, between God’s call and our response. Our works do not earn us salvation; it is a gift we receive by placing our faith in Christ. Our salvation is not sustained by our works, but by our continued faith in Christ. We don’t work to be saved; we work because we are saved. It is a labor of love for Christ. Understanding that when we do so, we glorify God, are blessed, and can, therefore, bless others.
Paul’s perspective on spiritual growth highlights the tension and harmony between divine grace and human effort. We are called to actively pursue righteousness and holiness. Yet, our efforts are grounded in the confidence that God works in us to will and act according to His good purpose (Philippians 2:13). This understanding prevents us from falling into the trap of legalism on the one hand or complacency on the other.
The labor of love believers engage in is not about earning God’s favor but responding to it. It is about aligning our lives with the truth of the Gospel and allowing the Holy Spirit to continually transform us from within. This transformation is not a one-time event, but an ongoing, lifelong process that will only be completed when we stand before Christ. As Paul has already written, “I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).
God is committed to us as believers. The foundation of spiritual growth is recognizing that God, who began a work within us, will complete this work. Genuine spiritual progress is rooted in what God has done, is doing, and will do. His faithfulness ensures that He will be with believers until Jesus returns. So, keep on keeping on. You are a work in progress, and God has placed you in His hands. He will finish the work as we continue to walk with Him.
This assurance should inspire us to persevere, even when the path is difficult. Knowing that God is faithful in completing the work He started in us gives us the courage to face our weaknesses and the determination to keep pressing forward. Our spiritual journey is not about achieving perfection on our own but about trusting in the One perfecting us. Remember that our labor is not in vain as we press on in our faith. It reflects the transformation that God is bringing about in our lives. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!