“To the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars.
“‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent… The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ Revelation 3:1-3a,5-6
“So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have.” 2 Corinthians 8:11
Every word of God is true, and carries power to accomplish what it commands, promises, foretells. His intended purposes for man are designed with eternal reason, and He expects His people to finish what they start, fulfilling His purpose for them on earth. Effort and intention must be matched with steadfastness to see things through. One of the clearest indicators of true spiritual life is fulfilling the work God assigns.
The Lord designed, unfolded, and finished creation. He sent His Son to initiate salvation and complete redemption for His glory and for us. He is fully invested in sanctifying us over the course of our life here on earth, conforming us to His image and purpose. He stands by His promises in action and character to perform, and expects that we complete what we have begun for Him. Incomplete works are affront to this One who is the beginning and the end, the all in all. (Genesis 1:31-2:3; Matthew 21:28–31a; John 17:4; 19:30; Romans 8:29-30; Philippians 1:6; Revelation 1:8; 22:13)
What has God called and especially equipped us to do in His kingdom- at church, in our homes, communities, and workplaces? How conscientiously do we carry out responsibilities? Do we accept His appointments with a sense of honor in serving Him, and enthusiasm? Do we embark on and see through each assignment with a commitment to excellence and zeal? (Acts 14:21-27)
Where have we not attached thorough action with intention, and what keeps us from it? What works have we begun for God but let slide by inattention or apathy? What personal preferences, worldly distractions, or weariness tempt or cause us to lose our zeal or give up the fight? What will we do to address these tendencies, and press on to completion of character and finishing faith’s race? The God who plants ideas and issues the call will enable us to be faithful to the finish. (1 Thessalonians 5:24; 2 Timothy 4:7-8; 2 Peter 1:5-11)
“Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning;
Jesus, to Thee be all glory giv’n!
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing!
O come, let us adore Him;
O come, let us adore Him;
O come, let us adore Him, Christ, the Lord!” ~John Francis Wade (1707-1786)
Lord, inspire and satisfy me in completing all You assign, for Your purposes and glory. (John 4:34)
As the rain and snow 