“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling…” (Philippians 2:12)
The words work out means to work fully, accomplish, to finish or fashion.
“Work out…” katergazomai kat-er-gad’-zom-ahee From G2596 and G2038; to work fully, that is, accomplish; by implication to finish, fashion… (Strongs)
This word was used by the first century author Strabo to speak of digging silver out of silver mines. (Nelson)
If a mine is worked out, all the coal, gold etc has been removed from it…
Paul encourages the saints at Philippi to see their salvation through to the end; to work out their salvation. He is not asking them to do enough good works to earn salvation, but rather to live like those who are already saved. The idea is to live with the passion and attention of someone holding on to a precious possession, one more valuable than the world and everything in it. This possession is unique to you; everyone has one, but no one has the one you possess, and it is something you do not want to lose. This precious possession refers to our soul. The rescue of our soul and safety that Christ has brought to our soul should not be forgotten. Work diligently, complete the course, and finish fully.
A Christian is to complete the work that began when they first entered into a relationship with God. When we enlist in the LORD’S Army, there is work for us and we are responsible until we finish the course. As Paul’s life was nearing its end, he said, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith, henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness.” 2nd Timothy 4:7-8 He did not claim to have fought a perfect fight, but he endured. He maintained his faith even in the face of adversity. He continued running and completed the course with fear and trembling.
Prospering Pathway 
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