John had attended church his entire life. Every Sunday, he attended, sat in the same pew, sang every song, and attended the sermons. However, something in his life just wasn't right. He had no meaningful relationships, a pointless job, or any sense of direction.

He made the decision one day to discuss it with the pastor. He questioned, "Why isn't God blessing me? I attend church, pray, and pay my tithes, but nothing changes. ".

After patiently listening, the pastor asked, "John, you've been coming to church for years, but have you been working the Word? Have you been applying the principles of the Bible to your life?".

John shook his head in disbelief. He acknowledged, "I guess I haven't really thought about it that way.".

The pastor revealed Philippians 2:12 to John after taking a Bible out of his bag. "It says here work out your own salvation with fear and trembling," he said. That means it's up to you to put God's Word to use in your life by applying it. ".

John was inspired and challenged as he left the pastor's office. He didn't just listen to sermons on Sundays; he also began reading the Bible on his own. He started to intentionally pray and look for opportunities to help others. He even started going to Bible studies and small group gatherings.

John's life began to alter gradually but surely. Where he had previously only seen dead ends, he now saw opportunities. He received a promotion at work and was able to forge closer relationships with others.

Even more, he began giving his time to a neighborhood charity that provided aid to those in need.

John once marveled at how many blessings God had bestowed upon him as he reflected on his life.

He understood that the reason wasn't just that he attended church or paid his tithes, but also that he had accepted responsibility for applying the Word of God to his own life. The Word was working for him as a result of his work with it.

John was filled with thanks and joy as he sat in church on Sunday. He was conscious of his place in God's plan for his life and the impact he was having on those around him. John had learned the true meaning of a victorious life as a result of his willingness to work the Word.