Work out: Scripture is replete with pictures of committed workers (i.e. soldier, athlete, farmer [2 Tim. 2:3-6; Phil. 2:25; 1 Cor. 9:25; Jas. 5:7]). Each picturesque example requires a dedicated focus to its specific goal and a disciplined lifestyle necessary to achieve the goal. Similarly, every Christian is called to work out his or her own salvation^{^[1]} with dedication (Phil. 2:12). With final salvation (glorification) as our goal, holiness is our inseparable disciplined lifestyle. We must zealously commit our lives to the work of becoming more like Christ in holiness (Titus 2:11-14). This entails a life-long commitment (Matt. 10:22; 2 Tim. 2:11-13), a Spirit-filled life (Gal. 5:16), and conformity to the word of God (John 17:17).

Hold Fast: It is not enough to hear a prohibition^{^[2]}, or the aim^{^[3]}, we need an action item. The only way that we will become more like Christ is to cling to God's message that brings about life (Phil. 2:16). Christ is the focal point of the message so we must cling to Him (1 Pet. 2:2, 4). A "Jesus-clinging-life" exclusively clings to Him (1 Kings 18:21; Matt 6:24; Gal 1:10; James 4:4). His purpose becomes our purpose (John 12:26-27; Col. 1:28-29; 1 Pet. 2:21, 4:6; 1 John 3:8) and His priorities become our priorities (Luke 4:42-43)^{^[4]}. Life is too short to hold the message loosely - for Jesus to be an accessory to our lives. He is our life.

[1] Salvation in this context refers to progressive sanctification. In other contexts, the term salvation could indicate conversion (Rom. 1:16) or the final state of glorification (Heb. 9:28).

[2] Do all things without grumbling or disputing (Phil. 2:14).

[3] Prove yourselves to be blameless... (Phil. 2:15).

[4] There were unreached cities which needed to hear Jesus' preaching and there was more healing to do in the current city. Yet, Jesus chose the better over the good showing the importance of His priorities in His purpose.