As men of God, we live out two realities: our life on earth and our heavenly destination. When we are first saved and begin the earthly part of our journey, we can still fear–and even doubt–what lies ahead. Death often comes with a certain amount of fear. But as we grow in our faith through the Word of God, we exchange the fear of death for faith–faith that anticipates and prepares us for our heavenly home. We are no longer driven by fear, but by love. It is this love that casts out fear.
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)
We must remember that we are now saved and will spend eternity with Christ in Heaven. Our gift of salvation is because God has chosen us. We did not find Him; He found us. This choice was not just a call to Heaven and eternal life; He keeps us here for a season.
Why? Because we have an assignment, in Philippians 1:23, Paul was torn between wanting to go to Heaven and staying on earth.
I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. (Philippians 1:23-24)
His faith was so strong that he’d rather be in Heaven with his Heavenly Father. Yet, he knew that the challenges and suffering on earth were for the good of those around him and the honor of God. He recognized that his work on earth was not done. God’s reason for having him here was not over, and Paul recognized this.
Paul spoke of this work as a partnership in the Gospel to those around him. “Without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved–and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him” (Philippians 1:28-29).
“Without being frightened” was big because many, just like today, opposed Christ and even rejected Him. But that rejection was a sign that one day they will be destroyed and end up in Hell, and it was an encouragement to those who seek the Lord that they will be saved. Simply the recognition of the Gospel of Christ within you is confirmation of your salvation. Paul was called to show the gift of God to the Gentiles, just as we are called to show the gift of God to those around us. Once we are saved, God, as He did with Paul, keeps us here for good works.
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed–not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence–continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:12-13)
Like an employer, you don’t just hire someone and then let them retire the next day. No, you hire them, and then there is a season of good works that you have prepared for them. Retirement is the reward of your good works! The employer hired you, assigned you, and then set your retirement date. This same illustration holds true for us who have been saved and are still here. We have been chosen and are kept here because God has something for us to do. He chose us, He sets out the assignment, and He’s set our exit date. Like a good employee, we are called to do His will, setting our eyes on the reward.
In contrast, there are others who set their eyes on selfish desires. Paul gives us a glimpse into their destination.
Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. (Philippians 3:19)
As children of God, we remember both how good He is to save us and then to call us into this great assignment. He didn’t save us only to bring us home; He saved us to let us participate in the good works that He designed for us before we were born. He is both a good Savior and a good Father!
Have a great weekend
Stephen L. Thomas
RTM