PROMISE #12
I am at work in your life through the desires
of your heart. Philippians 2:13
You don’t have to beg God for the things He desires to give you and what He wants to give you is your hearts desires. Note to self NOT the desires of my head which change on a daily basis. New stuff comes onto the market all the time and we ‘must have’ to make us feel better until the next rush is needed. God gives us people and pleasures in our lives that will endure, satisfy and enhance our journey with Him for years to come. So what is your hearts desire this morning, what burns inside of you that only God can make happen. Shalom.
Background to Philippians 2:13
Philippians 2:13 states, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” This verse is part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christians in Philippi. The epistle focuses on themes of joy, unity, and encouragement in faith despite challenges. Paul emphasizes the importance of humility and servanthood, encouraging the believers to live out their faith actively, knowing that it is God who empowers them.
Exegesis of Philippians 2:13
In this verse, Paul reassures the Philippians that God is actively involved in their lives. The phrase “works in you” suggests a divine initiative that aligns with God’s purposes and desires. It signifies that God does not just leave believers to figure things out on their own; rather, He actively influences their will and actions.
The context reveals that Paul is encouraging the believers to live in a way that reflects Christ’s humility and service (Philippians 2:5-11). By stating that God is at work within them, Paul emphasizes that their ability to live out this calling is not purely a result of their effort but is also due to God’s empowering presence. This assurance is both comforting and motivating, encouraging believers to trust in God’s work within them.
Application and Reflection
You don’t have to beg God for what He desires to give you. Instead, take heart that He is already working within you, cultivating the true desires of your heart—those that align with His purpose and will. It’s essential to differentiate between fleeting desires that arise from our immediate circumstances and those deeper, more enduring desires that God places in our hearts.
Reflecting on what truly ignites passion within you can lead to greater clarity about God’s purpose for your life. Ask yourself: what is it that burns inside of you? What are the dreams and aspirations that resonate with your spirit and seem to connect you with God’s greater narrative?
Relevant Additional Verses
- Psalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” This verse reassures us that when we align ourselves with God, our true desires will be fulfilled.
- Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This emphasizes that God’s plans are ultimately for our good.
- Proverbs 16:3 – “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” This reminds us to involve God in our aspirations, trusting Him to guide and establish our paths.
In conclusion, reflect on your heart’s desires today. Let them guide your prayers and intentions, knowing that God is actively involved in shaping and fulfilling those desires in ways that enrich your life and deepen your relationship with Him. Shalom.