Topical Encyclopedia Confidence in God's work in others is a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing the belief that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, shaping and guiding them according to His divine purposes. This confidence is rooted in the understanding that God, who begins a good work in individuals, is faithful to bring it to completion.One of the foundational verses that encapsulate this belief is found in Philippians 1:6, where the Apostle Paul expresses his assurance to the believers in Philippi: "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus" . This verse highlights the trust that God, who initiates spiritual growth and transformation, will continue His work until it reaches its fulfillment. The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who demonstrated confidence in God's work in others. In the Old Testament, Moses exhibited trust in God's ability to use Joshua as a leader for the Israelites. Despite the challenges ahead, Moses encouraged Joshua, saying, "Be strong and courageous, for you will go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance" (Deuteronomy 31:7). Moses' confidence was not in Joshua's abilities alone but in God's promise and presence with him. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently expressed his confidence in the spiritual growth and maturity of the early Christian communities. In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul writes, "We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, as is fitting, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing" (2 Thessalonians 1:3). Paul's gratitude and confidence were based on the observable evidence of God's work in their lives, manifesting in their increasing faith and love. The concept of confidence in God's work in others also extends to the communal aspect of the Church. Believers are encouraged to support and edify one another, trusting that God is at work within the body of Christ. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching" . This passage underscores the importance of mutual encouragement and the role of the community in fostering spiritual growth. Furthermore, confidence in God's work in others is not limited to spiritual leaders or mature believers. The Bible teaches that every believer is endowed with spiritual gifts and is an integral part of the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, Paul explains, "There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good" . This passage affirms that God is at work in every believer, equipping them for service and the edification of the Church. Confidence in God's work in others is ultimately an expression of faith in God's sovereignty and His ability to accomplish His purposes through His people. It is a recognition that God, who is faithful and unchanging, is actively involved in the lives of believers, guiding them toward spiritual maturity and the fulfillment of His divine plan. Subtopics Confidence: Betrayed: Abner, by Joab Confidence: Betrayed: Ahimelech, by David Confidence: Betrayed: Amasa, by Joab Confidence: Betrayed: Eglon, by Ehud Confidence: Betrayed: Joshua, by the Gibeonites Confidence: Betrayed: The Worshipers of Baal, by Jehu Select Readings: Confidence in God Related Terms |