Readings:
2 Corinthians 8:1-9
Psalm 146:2,5-9
Matthew 5:43-48
Sometimes, I watch interviews of successful people in different walks of life. And one thing most of them never fail to mention is that they consistently had to work their way up the ladder of success. In one interview the famous swimmer, Michael Phelps said that he decided to swim every day for three years, without skipping a day. It did not matter if he was sick, angry, lazy or troubled. He would get up each day, jump in the pool and swim. He trained his mind and will to see swimming not just as something he loves to do, but something he HAD to do. The result of his consistency is the most decorated Olympian to date with a total of 28 medals. His achievement would not be possible without consistency and discipline.
Perfection is a MUST Jesus says. It is not for a few like those who win gold medals. It is the aspiration of all Christians and the goal to which they must aspire. We all have within us what it takes to attain perfection because as Jesus adds, you ought to be perfect, “just as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). It is in your spiritual DNA to be perfect, your shortcomings notwithstanding. Your time on earth is a school of consistent spiritual walk and discipline. And you will have a lot of teachers as you go through life.
Life will teach you to either be perfect or to despair. You will struggle with your weaknesses. Some struggle with a particular sin for a very long time. Others do with difficulty what others find very easy. A lot of people struggle with forgiving others (lovers or known enemies). The goal is never to give up hope. Instead seek counselling and mentorship. Get creative, and find other ways of arriving at your desired goal. Sometimes, it is the struggle to attain spiritual perfection that God crowns eventually. This is because the journey is just as important as the destination. Your failure does not mean that perfection is impossible. It only means that you need to seek grace. For those who are willing, God supplies grace.
In the midst of your challenges, God will give you gifts that console you and encourage you to strive for higher things. Take your challenges one at a time. Success in one aspect of your life will encourage you to take up challenge on another. Today, you must decide never to give up as you strive after perfection.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
Prayer:
Sing aloud to God our strength, Make a joyful shout to the God of Jacob.
Raise a song and strike the timbrel, The pleasant harp with the lute.
Lord, you have called me to perfection in life. Help me to work on my weakness, to strive for excellence, to forgive my enemies and focus my will on doing what pleases You and gives me peace through Christ our Lord.
Unite the body of Christ in love and with boldness to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Lord use the situation in our nations to propagate Your kingdom, in Jesus name.
Father fill our leaders with the fear of You and boldness to say and do the right thing at all times, in Jesus name. Amen.
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