“…work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” – Philippians 2:12-13
As we study the life of Samson, we see a series of “tests” that he took and that all of us must take in life. Over the next two weeks, we will discuss 10 of these tests and see how they apply to our own lives.
Let’s jump into the first test, which is salvation. Samson was a believer. He got saved but he didn’t grow. God saves you but you need to work with God to grow yourself. Salvation is a gift that God gives. You must remember that you’re a sinner by nature and choice. I’m a sinner by nature and choice. God is holy, righteous, and good and our sin has separated us from that good God. Other religions teach that we do something to go up to God. This may be through good works or reincarnation. Christianity alone teaches that we don’t go up to God, but He comes down to us. It teaches that we don’t save ourselves but that we have a Savior, and His name is Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ lived the life that no man has lived: a perfect life without sin. Jesus Christ went to the cross, substituted Himself and died in our place for our sins. He reconciles us to God, and He removes the sin that separates us from God.
After His death, He was buried and three days later He rose from the dead. He conquered Satan, sin, death, Hell and the wrath of God. He then ascended into Heaven and He is alive right now. Jesus is high and exalted right now. Jesus is being worshiped in glory right now. Jesus is ruling and reigning right now and there will be a day that Jesus returns, and He will come not in humility, but in glory. He will come to defeat the nations, denounce evil, and destroy Satan and demons. Until that day comes, there is an opportunity of salvation where we can turn from sin and trust in Him. If we do that, we are saved by the grace of God through the work of Jesus Christ.
Salvation is nothing that we earn, it’s something that we receive. So, my question to you is are you saved? Do you know Jesus? Are you a Christian? If not, that’s why you’re reading this devotional right now. I want to help you make the most important decision you will ever make and that is the decision to follow Jesus Christ. Salvation is a gift but, for a person to grow, he/she needs to put some effort into his/her life with God. I always like to say that God works for you through the cross and resurrection of Jesus, God works in you to save you and then God works through you. It’s awesome to be saved but Philippians 2:12 says you need to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” Samson is a painful example of a Christian who isn’t growing. He’s a Christian but he’s not maturing. For some of you, this would be your case. You’re going to Heaven but just like Samson, you’re living like Hell.
Tomorrow we will look at the second test, sensitivity to the Holy Spirit.
What are some practical ways that you can grow in maturity as a Christian?
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