Attaining Completion

Jesus learned obedience through suffering, and after that, he was made perfect. Children of God who aspire and strive for perfection, would have to learn obedience through suffering as well [Heb 5:8]. In James 1:2-4, we are encouraged to glory in trials and tribulations because we know that the testing of our faith develops perseverance and perseverance must finish its work so that we may be mature and complete not lacking anything.

Just as suffering brought about obedience in Christ which led to his perfection, trials and tribulations should teach us perseverance which will bring about completion and maturity.

Jesus endured the cross because of the joy set before him. He knew of his reward even before he agreed to go through with it, his exaltation was not a surprise to him [Heb 12:2]. He endured obediently (persevered) because he understood that the pain he would go through cannot be compared to the glory he would receive. We have also been given the revelation of the reward God has in store for us if we endure and reverently submit to him. We should be reminded, encouraged and motivated to endure patiently and obediently being fully aware that the time we spend on this earth enduring is nothing compared to the glorious time we'd spend in eternity.

Another important aspect to note is that completion, maturity and perfection comes with perseverance, which comes with endurance. Endurance can only be brought about when uncomfortable situations (also known as trials and tribulations) are thrown at us. When we go through trials, our faith is tested, and how we respond determines whether we are obedient and patient or not. Whatever happens, to live in perfection, maturity and completion as God wants us to live, we must persevere. Are you afraid of trials, persecutions or tribulations? We shouldn't be! We have to overcome them all for us to live the glorious life God as planned for us.