Affirmations for selfless living:

•When you spend time with others, be encouraged—not dependent (2:12).

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

Affirmations for selfless living:

•When you remember God’s work in you, be more active—not less (2:12-13).

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

Paul means “salvation” in terms of progressively coming to experience all of the aspects and blessings of salvation… Continued obedience is an inherent part of “working out” their salvation in this sense…these works are the result of God’s work within his people. Even the desire (“to will”) to do what is good comes from God - The ESV Study Bible

When God works we want to work:

•He showed grace to us; we wouldn’t want that to be in vain (1 Cor. 15:10)
•He prepared good works for us to do (Eph. 2:10)
•He energized us to minister to others (Col. 1:29)
•He equipped us for specific tasks—they are ours to do (Gal 2:8).
The more he works, the more we want to work.

Affirmations for selfless living:

•When you live for Christ, be thankful—not ungrateful (2:14).

"The Greek word for “complaining”…sounds like what it means. Its pronunciation is much like muttering or grumbling in a low tone of voice. It is an emotional rejection of God’s providence, will, and circumstances for one’s life. The word for “disputing” is more intellectual and here means “questionings,” or “criticisms” directed negatively toward God."
The MacArthur Study Bible

Benefits of selfless living:

•When you live unselfishly, you can speak openly (2:16).
•When you live purposefully (2:17)
•When you live sacrificially (2:18)