Works vs Salvation!

 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (Phil 2:2)

                          This verse says a lot. Unfortunately, this verse has been very much misunderstood. Many legalists will say that you have to be saved by works because of this verse, but let's look at a couple of important points--

• First, we were created to be his workmanship created unto good works.(Eph 2:10) We do not work to be saved, we work because we are saved.
• Second, we are saved and seated in heavenly places. (Eph 2:6) If we are to work for our salvation, then we are not seated in heavenly places.
• Third, Our Salvation is complete in the spirit, but we have to put our souls (mind, will and emotions) and our flesh (Body) under the rule of the Holy Spirit. This takes work and it is a part of working our salvation in those two areas. Remember, man is a tri-part being and we need to be complete in that area as well. (I Thess 5:23) 
• Salvation is referred in the Greek word "Soteria" and it means perservation, protection, prosperity and healing. Those areas need to be worked out as well with fear and trembling. Why? God judges unbelief and it has serious consequences. (Rev 21:8)

                      So, in this day, determine to work out your salvation in those areas. Take some valuable time in the word and let it come alive in you. Not only will it change you but it will change your circumstances as well.