Philippians 1:6 … being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
The book of Philippians is one of my favorites because it offers so much hope and encouragement. Today’s verse is just one example of the nuggets of truth this book has to offer. It was written by the Apostle Paul while he was in prison in Rome. In the midst of a time most would consider troublesome (imprisonment), he chose to share a message of hope and joy. He encouraged them to stand firm in their faith in the face of their own hardship.
The verse starts off with confidence. This word indicates a strong belief in what is to come. Believers could trust in the promises of God. We have no reason to doubt that He has a plan for each of us (Jeremiah 29:11).
Our confidence is this – God is the source of our hope. He has begun a good work in us, taking broken, sinful people and sanctifying us. He has changed us and made us new (2 Corinthians 5:17). We are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). Our old flesh has been crucified with Christ and Christ now lives in each of us (Galatians 2:20). There is no greater hope than knowing He loves each of us. And we can have confidence in God knowing all of this.
And what more? This renewal, sanctification, and spiritual growth will continue. It is an ongoing process, a long term action, and it will not be complete until we are with Him in heaven. It began in us at the moment we became believers and continues for our entire life!
Our God is faithful. He loves us dearly and He wants what is best for us. We depend on Him and we can be assured that He will continue this good work within us through the end. If that does not fill you with hope then nothing will. We should be encouraged in the midst of hardship and trials, knowing He is at work in us and in our lives.
Have faith, dear friends. Faith in God. Faith in the work He is doing in you now. Faith in the future and the work He will continue to do. Seek Him with all of your heart and trust in the hope He brings.
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