Three Slightly Different Translations

I am sure that the One who has begun His good work in you will
go on developing it until the day of Jesus Christ. (JB Philips)

I am sure that God who began the good work within you will
keep right on helping you grow in His grace until His task within
you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns. (The Living Bible)

For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good
work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. (New American Standard)

My Thoughts

Philippians 1:6 is one of those verses that could be placed in a variety of categories: Comfort, Serenity, Rest, Assurance, Relief, etc. It applies to every Believer. That means that it is for me and for my entire circle of loved ones. The one prerequisite is that the person is a Believer.

How I have thanked God through the years for putting this one small verse in His Word! What do I mean? Look at it. It says that:

I am confident. That means I’m sure. “I will not doubt” is my conviction. I refuse any thoughts to the contrary–I trust–I am willing to stand behind what I am confident of–I believe this.

I, Anabel, had nothing to do with the work that was begun at salvation. It is out of the range of my ability (even remotely possible is ridiculous). He began it. He planned it. It is His work–NOT MINE.

He will perfect it. Finish it. Complete it. He will NOT QUIT. He will not give up, and it will all be done–completed perfectly!

What does that do for you as you consider a child who you know–unequivocally–is a born-again Believer but who is not walking with the Lord in his life just now?

What does that do for you as you look at parents who have assured you of their salvation experience but you see no evidence in their life?

What does that do for you as you shake your head in utter disbelief at some of the behavior of your spouse who says to you, “Yes! I believe in Jesus Christ! I accept His death for my forgiveness! I accept God’s provision for going to Heaven! I became a Christian when I was seven years old. Stop bugging me about it!”

What does that do for you as you evaluate yourself?

Such hope! Such relief! Such anticipation!

Thank You, Lord, that this isn’t MY responsibility! You would never start aproject and leave it unfinished, and it will be perfect when you put Your tools aside, take off your carpenter’s apron, and dust off your hands. Thank You, for Your plan, Your commitment to me, Your work, Your being a superperfectionist–and being in charge!