Daily, Not in a Day

Perfection is a journey. Sometimes we can fall into the trap of perfectionism as followers of Jesus.

COMPLETE

"But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing" (James 1:4).

I fall into the trap of perfectionism quite often. Even though my mind can comprehend that I will never be able to earn God's grace, my heart still wants to. Even if I could earn it (which my crazy self can't) then it would not be a gift anyway. The biblical word that is translated "perfect" means to become "complete." I'm not perfect yet. "Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you" (2 Corinthians 13:11). This is what our aim should be - to become complete.

JUST DO IT

Just as Paul says in Philippians, "continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12). In other words, just keep on doing it. And do it with fear and trembling.

1) Work it Out - The Greek word for "(work) out" means to "perform, accomplish, achieve." So, this is an active verb. This is something we have to do.

2) With Fear & Trembling - The Greek word for "trembling" means "to describe the anxiety of one who distrusts his ability completely to meet all requirements, but religiously does his utmost to fulfill his duty." So, we should work it out with reverence, and in doing this remember that we don't have the ability to meet the requirements.

Therefore, we simply accept Jesus and live based on His empowerment. He alone is why we live, who we live for, and where we find our identity. Do you feel discouraged? Don't forget that you develop step-by-step (daily), but not in a day.