God Will Finish What He Started

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Philippians 1:6 (ESV)
God Will Finish What He Started

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“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 (ESV)

Philippians is a joyful letter from the apostle Paul, written from prison (likely in Rome around AD 60–62) to the church in Philippi, a Roman colony in Macedonia. Paul is thanking them for their partnership in the gospel, encouraging them to live humbly and joyfully in Christ, and reassuring them that God’s purposes are advancing—even through suffering. Chapter 1 opens with gratitude, prayer for their love and discernment, and confidence that God will finish what He started in them. This matters today because it reminds us that growth in Christ is not self-powered; God Himself is the faithful builder of our lives, guiding us through every season toward Christlikeness.

Examine

Philippians 1:6 declares that the God who initiates salvation and spiritual growth is the same God who sees it through to completion. Our transformation is God’s project—He is both the founder and finisher. This truth offers assurance in seasons of slow progress, setbacks, or uncertainty: your story is securely held by a faithful God who does not abandon His work.

Connection to Jesus: This promise centers on “the day of Jesus Christ,” pointing to His return when all God’s work in us will be perfected. Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Through His life, death, and resurrection, He began the good work of new creation in us, and by His Spirit He continues to shape us into His image until the day we see Him face to face.

Main Themes:
- God’s Faithfulness: Your growth rests on God’s steadfast commitment, not your flawless performance.
- Ongoing Transformation: Spiritual maturity is a process; God works through time, trials, and community.
- Hope and Perseverance: Confidence in God’s completion empowers you to keep moving forward with joy.

Key Word Study:
- Began (Greek: enárchomai): to initiate a process or ceremony. Paul implies a decisive start initiated by God—your new life and ongoing growth started with Him, not you.
- Bring to completion (Greek: epiteléō): to finish, perfect, or bring to full end. God is not doing patchwork repairs; He is completing a masterpiece to His intended design.

Apply

Reflective Questions:
- Where do I feel “unfinished” right now, and how does God’s promise change how I see that area?
- What is one small, faithful step I can take today that cooperates with God’s ongoing work in me?
- Who is a trusted person I can invite to encourage and pray with me as God continues this work?

Real-Life Application:
- Practice a “God’s Work Journal”: Each day write one line: “Today I saw God working in me when…” Noticing His activity fuels confidence.
- Choose a Keystone Habit: Pick one small discipline that aligns with God’s work (5 minutes of Scripture in the morning, a midday prayer pause, or a nightly gratitude list). Consistency beats intensity.
- Share Your Journey: Text a friend this verse and one area you’re trusting God to finish. Ask them to check in weekly.

Pray

Dear HeavenlyFather, I praise You as the faithful God who starts and finishes good works. I confess the places where I grow discouraged, impatient, or try to control my own transformation. Forgive me for doubting Your timing and resisting Your process. Today, strengthen me to trust Your hands at work in me. Give me grace to take the next small step, courage to persevere, and a heart open to Your Spirit. Complete what You’ve begun for the glory of Jesus, and let my life reflect His love more each day. Amen.

Closing Reflection: Picture your life as a canvas on the easel of a Master Artist. Some strokes are bold, others delicate; some days look messy midway through. But the Artist never leaves the studio, and every color serves His beautiful design. He started this portrait; He will finish it.

Call to Action: Memorize Philippians 1:6 today. Set a phone reminder at midday to recite it and whisper, “Lord, I trust Your work in me.” Then encourage one person by sharing this promise—become a carrier of the confidence you’ve received.