“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
(Philippians 2:13)
In his letter to the Philippian believers Paul shares a high biblical truth, i.e., that Almighty God whose Spirit takes up residence inside each individual believer at the moment of salvation is actively at work within us from that point forward! He not only empowers us to continue to do His will but also kindles the very desires that draw us toward holiness.
As John Brinsley so well said, “This is God’s work, which man cannot do of [or for] himself. No, not so much as to will [himself] to come to Christ. For it is God that works in you both to will and to do… this gift he bestows only upon his Elect.”[1]
Wrapped up in this powerful truth we find a mysterious blend of human will and divine influence. God initiates the desire in our spirit to come to him, to open the door of our heart to his bidding because he gives us a brand-new heart. And then, with that new heart, when we act upon this new desire, our act of willingness to do so is at once – simultaneously – both our choice and a consequence of His gift.
This mysterious, synergistic interplay between the human and the divine hearkens to Jesus’ words to Nicodemus in that beautiful conversational exchange found in John 3. While physical birth (being “born of water”) is a visible act, being “born again of the Spirit” is an invisible transformation. This experience of the new birth is an event unattainable by human effort or design. It is, rather, the unique, work of the Holy Spirit and will forever remain one of the divine mysteries we are allowed to partake in.
Furthermore, this gift of divine grace is not just available to bring us to Christ. In David’s words, “surely [God’s] goodness and mercy will pursue me all the days of my life!” (Ps. 23:6). God’s children are continuously enveloped in divine goodness and grace, ensuring that our spiritual journey takes the path of sanctification that God has preordained us to travel.
Paul reminds us that such grace is not a result of anything we can offer; it is a gift that emanates from God’s profound mercy – which cannot be earned nor merited. Despite humanity’s depravity, wretchedness, and countless imperfections, God in His infinite goodness bestows His gifts on us. How awe-inspiring is it that we, replete with all our flaws, continue to receive gifts of mercy, grace, and love from our Creator God who has need of nothing?
What a truly comforting thought, that even when we falter, the eternal promise of grace, love, and support of our Heavenly Father’s everlasting arms remain. His commitment to ensuring we persevere in faith and holiness is not just a pledge, it is our predestination.
Contemplations:
- Lord, I am in awe of the incredible truth that You create within me both the desire and the power to live out Your purpose. Open my heart to fully grasp that every inclination towards righteousness is a manifestation of Your work inside me. I ask for the humility to recognize that my very longing for You is born of Your grace. May I always attribute my desires, strengths, and passions to Your unceasing work within my soul.
- Jesus, as I reflect on Your conversation with Nicodemus, I am reminded of the wonderful mystery and beauty of being “born again” in the Spirit. Let me never forget that this transformation, this new birth, is a divine work that I cannot achieve on my own. Just as I cannot control the wind, but only feel its effects, so it is with Your Spirit’s transformative power within me. Guide me, Lord, to always recognize and cherish the Spirit’s work in my heart and life.
- Father, in moments of introspection, I’m overwhelmed by Your extraordinary grace that transforms and redeems even someone as unworthy as me. When I contemplate the vastness of Your mercy, I am reminded that everything good in me comes from You. Your grace is freely given, not earned or merited. Let my heart always remain grateful for Your unmerited favor, remembering that every good thing in my life is a testament to Your endless love.
- God, as I continue in my journey of faith, I am humbled to know that it is by Your grace alone that I am able to persevere. Strengthen my resolve, embed Your truth deep within me, and let Your grace be my anchor. Despite the challenges and storms I face, may my faith in You remain unwavering. I thank You for the promise of Your presence, ensuring that Your grace within me remains a continual fountain, springing up into everlasting life.
- Heavenly Father, the knowledge that I am predestined for a relationship with You brings both comfort and awe. I find solace in understanding that my path has been eternally known by You. May this divine predestination continually remind me of the depth of Your love and purpose for my life. Guide me to live out each day with gratitude and purpose, ever mindful of Your eternal promise and design.
- Lord, Your infinite knowledge and eternal nature are beyond my understanding. Reassure me that even when I falter or doubt, You remain unchanged and eternally present. And may the certainty of Your unchanging nature bring hope and steadfastness to my daily walk.
Further References for Phil. 2:13:
Heb. 13:1; 1 Cor. 12:6; Ezra 1:5; 2 Tim. 1:9
[1] John Brinsley, Three Links of a Golden Chain, (London: S. Griffin for Richard Tomlins, 1659), 33.
