Completion

<<conclusion, end>>

Often it is relatively easy to start a project but to see it through to a satisfactory ending is the important aspect; this requires determination, long-term effort and being prepared to pay the price (Eccl 7:8; Lk 14:28-30). Not only should we faithfully persevere in our tasks but also assist and help others to complete theirs. Joshua, by obedience and perseverance, completed the task that God had originally given to Moses, but had become his responsibility (Josh 11:15). The good work that God has started in us will be completed, when we are conformed to the image of Jesus in heaven (Ps 138:8; Rom 8:29; Phil 1:6; 1 Pet 1:9). Praise God.

Just prior to His arrest, Jesus said in prayer to His Father, “I have brought you glory having completed the work [n earth] you have given me to do” (Jn 17:4). This would be fully achieved in a few hours when He would give His life as a substitute for ours (Rom 3:23-25; 1 Pet 3:18). This was an excruciating price He paid, yet the joy of knowing that through His sacrifice many people would be saved enabled Him to endure (Heb 12:2,3).

Paul stated, “My life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus – the work of telling others the good news about the wonderful grace of God” (Act 20:24). Later his testimony was, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim 4:7). May this be ours too? It can if we give

Am I committed to seeing my divine calling through to completion?

our all to God, and focus on fulfilling His calling for our lives putting aside every hindrance (Heb 12:1). Paul did not have it easy, suffering terribly for the sake of Christ. Part way through his ministry he outlined some of the hardships he had experienced (2 Cor 11:23-29). He was not being proud in his accomplishments rather acknowledging the grace of God that had enabled him to achieve what he had. Do I know my divine call and am I giving it my all? Jesus gave His all for me, can I give Him anything less?

Christ is the source of all our need – “You are complete and find fulfilment in Him who is the head of all principality and power” (Col 2:10). We don't need to look elsewhere for He is the source of life and through Him we have all we need.