June 19, 2026
Friday, June 19
Entropy is a destructive force, and it can even happen to our souls. In the same way an untended house falls apart, an untended relationship with Christ soon becomes a hollow shell of what it once was. What can we do to ensure this doesn’t happen, or to reverse the soul-entropy that is already underway?
Philippians 2:12-13 is the blueprint for a redeemed and restored walk with Christ:
12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
Verse 12 bothers people. If you take it out of context, it seems to be saying, “Save yourself.” But then you see v. 13 say “For it is God who works in you.” So, just like the rest of the New Testament, we see that the power to be saved doesn’t come from us, it comes from God. So what does v. 12 mean? How can we “work out” our own salvation?
First, let’s be clear on what salvation is. It isn’t just a “get out of Hell free” card, as it’s sometimes presented. It’s forgiveness of sins, yes, but it’s more than that. It’s being saved from the person you once were, and the person you were destined to become, so that you are free to become who God created you to be. You are a new creation, on a journey to be just like Jesus, full of love, joy, peace, and all the other things that make Him who He is. That has been given to you. Now it’s up to you to work that salvation into every aspect of your life.
Here’s an illustration I use often: Imagine you live in a drafty shack, and the world’s greatest home builder offers to build you the most magnificent house on earth. There is one condition, however: You have to work alongside him. He will provide all the materials, tools, and expertise. He will show you, step-by-step, how to build. But he insists you show up every day. When you choose not to show up, the work stops. He figures you’re happy in your shack. But when you show up, He does amazing things.
It doesn’t get built overnight, of course. Houses never do, especially not houses as glorious as this one. Some days, you may not feel like anything was accomplished. But as the weeks and months roll on, you step back and see the progress. You see how He took this thing from bare dirt to something that’s starting to look like a truly wonderful home. You know this is the kind of home that will not only be a great place to live; it will draw others in too. They will want to know who this builder is, and what it would take for them to have that kind of a house. And then they get saved, too.
But only if you keep showing up for work.
“Jesus, I know all the power to change me is in your hands, not mine. But you’ve also commanded me to work alongside you in becoming the person you created me to be. So right now, I offer myself to you. Help me to prioritize our relationship above all else, to show up for work everyday ready to build. In your name, amen.”
Senior Pastor
First Baptist Conroe
More from Pastor Jeff at his website: jeffbergerwriting.com
