What steps can we take to "be made complete" in our faith journey? Centering on the Verse “Finally, brothers, rejoice! Aim for restoration, comfort one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.” (2 Corinthians 13:11) What “Be Made Complete” Means • The Greek term translated “restoration” or “completion” (katartizō) pictures mending a net or setting a bone—bringing something to full, sound usefulness. • In the faith journey, it speaks of believers allowing God to finish His work so that nothing is lacking (cf. James 1:4, “Let perseverance finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing,”). Step 1: Rejoice—Choose Joy in Christ • Joy is more than mood; it is a settled confidence in God’s goodness (Philippians 4:4). • Practically, this means praising God in worship, recounting His faithfulness, and refusing to let circumstances steal gratitude. • Joy strengthens us for growth (Nehemiah 8:10). Step 2: Aim for Restoration—Pursue Spiritual Alignment • Confess known sin (1 John 1:9) and invite God to realign motives and habits. • Submit to biblical teaching and accountability so God can “mend the net” of your character (Hebrews 13:20-21). • Seek reconciliation where relationships are frayed (Matthew 5:23-24). Step 3: Comfort One Another—Practice Mutual Encouragement • Encouragement is a command, not a suggestion (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Offer words that build up, share Scripture, meet practical needs, and refuse gossip. • As we strengthen others, God deepens our own maturity (Proverbs 11:25). Step 4: Be of One Mind—Guard Unity in Truth • Unity grows around shared devotion to Christ and His Word (Ephesians 4:13). • Stay teachable, listen well, and refuse divisive attitudes (Philippians 2:2-4). • Stand firm on essential doctrines while showing grace in secondary matters (Romans 14:19). Step 5: Live in Peace—Cultivate a Peace-Filled Lifestyle • Peace with God through Christ (Romans 5:1) must overflow into relationships. • Actively forgive, overlook minor offenses, and pursue peacemaking (Matthew 5:9; Colossians 3:15). • Trust God’s sovereignty, casting anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:7). The Result: God’s Near Presence • “...And the God of love and peace will be with you.” His nearness empowers every step (Psalm 16:11). • Growth is not self-powered; it is the Father shaping us into Christ’s likeness (Romans 8:29). Putting It All Together Daily choose joy, invite God’s restorative work, speak encouragement, guard unity, and pursue peace. As we practice these five habits, we open ourselves to God’s completing touch, progressing toward the wholeness He intends. |
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