Completion

When we take on a task to do, whether it be on the job or at home, we should not consider it completed until we have done our best and done what is needed. We don’t hold in high regard those people who are lazy or do sloppy work.

Philippians 1:6 says, “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Genuine spiritual progress is rooted in what God has done, is doing, and will do. His work in us is perfect and He promises to complete the job according to His perfect design for us. His faithfulness ensures that He will be with believers until Jesus returns and for eternity.

Right Advocate

Suppose you are in court as the defendant on several serious charges against you. You have hired a lawyer who, although unorthodox, has a perfect record as an advocate for his clients. The problem, however, is that you did commit the crimes and the evidence of your guilt is overwhelming and can’t be denied. At the trial, your lawyer does something really unusual. He stands before the judge and admits you are guilty. But then He offers to take the punishment for you and requests that you be set free.

I John 2:1-2 says, “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.” Jesus stands before the Father and pleads our case for forgiveness and justification. Only, His plea is not based upon any good that we have done. But rather, His plea is based upon what He has done for us by sacrificing Himself on the cross for us.

Walk In The Light

Almost every morning I go for a hike and I begin while it is still dark. I have to walk gingerly as many dangers are in my path. Uneven walkways, holes, animals, obstructions and other unexpected dangers can trip me up and cause me to fall. Then there is the possibility that someone may be lurking in the darkness, seeking to cause me harm.

I John 1:5-7 says,, “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” Be careful to walk in the light of God’s truth. Walking in His light keeps us in fellowship with other believers and cleanses from sin by Jesus. Walking away from God and into the darkness separates us from other believers and from God’s mercy. Many dangers lurk in the darkness and their mission is to trip us and cause us to fall.

Confidence

When you are facing a difficult situation, where do you go to stir up confidence? Perhaps you can count on a friend to strengthen your resolve. Maybe some books improve your outlook. Some people can use quiet meditation to give them confidence.

Psalm 78:4 says, “We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders he has done.” There is a strong connection between courage and remembering the things God has done for us. Praising God for His works gives us confidence He will work again on our behalf. He is a faithful God who can be trusted time and again.

The Hungry Soul Filled

Have you ever suggested a gift idea for yourself to a friend and relative, only to be sorely disappointed when they gave you something less? Maybe they misunderstood your request. Perhaps you didn’t communicate well. Or maybe you simply requested the wrong thing.

Psalm 107:9 says, “For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.” Get in touch with the things that your soul truly desires, and not the superficial things of this world. It is these true desires of the soul that the Lord promises to satisfy and thus fill your soul with good things.