“…Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling…” (Philippians 2:12).

Wait a minute.  What happened to “By grace you are saved, not by works”?  And “‘Fear not,’ saith the Lord”?

“Work out” can mean to make something happen.  However, here I also sense a hint of allowing something to happen.  So, while we’re obedient, we allow the Lord to deliver us from the consequences of sin.  But be afraid of the rescue?

The Greek “phobo” – think phobias – can mean fear, terror, dread.  But it can also mean to show reverence or respect.  So, we’re not to be afraid while trying to be obedient to the Lord.  We’re to show our appreciation with reverence and respect.

And salvation is not just deliverance from sickness, destruction, separation from God, etc.  Salvation is also deliverance to eternal life, health, wholeness, welfare.  Don’t be afraid of what God wants to do with you.