Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of our faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4
My words…
Praise
When You healed the lame, You did it completely. They didn’t tentatively hobble around. They sprang up and jumped and danced! When You brought sight to the blind, You did it absolutely. No blurry vision. Clear, vibrant colors in motion. Perfect 20/20 eyesight. You don’t do anything halfway. You love entirely. You give constantly. You bless fully.
Prayer for me
I would love to be mature and complete, lacking nothing. Who wouldn’t? But hanging out waiting for it to happen is like expecting to lose weight while lounging around gobbling fast food and ice cream. There’s a price to be paid, and it’s called endurance. If I desire the higher calling of completeness of growth, I must embrace complete endurance. Hmmm. My first inclination is to settle for fragmentary growth, partial maturity. That’s good enough, right? “No,” I hear You say. So then, in obedience, I pray for more testing of my faith, which produces endurance. Dare I say it: No pain, no gain.
Forgive me
Forgive me when I have failed my faith tests in the past. My failings are the result of not enough time spent studying, praying, meditating, and, especially, trusting.
Prayer for others
Today, I pray for the believing elderly who know their time on this planet is short. They struggle between two worlds: anxious about letting go of their flesh and hope for what lay beyond death. I feel like that myself sometimes. I pray that we all strive for complete maturity, every day of our lives, so we won’t be lacking when we meet You in the air.
Thank You
I am grateful You expect much of me and all of Your children. When trials occur, You provide the way through. Even though it may not be easy, there is always blessing on the other side. When I get there, I’m stronger. I’m better. I’m nearer completion.
More praise
Answered prayer! Is there anything in all the world more fulfilling than witnessing Your response to my request? Nope. It is the ultimate outpouring of Your power and care. It is the magnificent faith-builder. It is the catalyst for my praise today. I petitioned then stood under a deluge of blessing. I pour it back to You in the form of praise and thankfulness.
