This Side Of The Goal!

I want to be stronger! I want to be smarter! I want to be more mature! Those are worthwhile goals. However, though such ultimate aims need to be kept in mind, we get there by presently focusing on remaining STEADFAST and PERSEVERING in what will bring us toward those ends. To be stronger we must continue in working our muscles with resistance training to build up their strength. To be smarter we must continue the pursuit of study that will bring the knowledge desired. And to become more mature we must steadfastly refuse to bow to childish behavior, but rather leave some things to God while we grow bigger than the pettiness and immaturity often exhibited by the world around us. All of this is also true with regard to spiritual maturity.

James exhorted. . .
"(2) Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, (3) for you know that the TESTING of your faith PRODUCES STEADFASTNESS. (4) And LET STEADFASTNESS HAVE ITS FULL EFFECT, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." ( James 1:2-4 ESV)

Instead of the word "STEADFASTNESS", some translations have "PERSEVERANCE". The Greek word used by James is the noun "hupomone", and though it has also been translated "patience" it literally means "a remaining under" [being akin to the verb "hupomeno" which means to abide under or bear up courageously (as when suffering)]. [source: W.E. Vine's Expository Dictionary of N.T. Words]

Though the goal James mentioned was that of becoming "perfect and complete", the present need is that of REMAINING STEADFAST under the testing experienced in this life. To resist giving in or giving up when forces in this world seem to want to stop our forward motion, we are to continue pressing on. With the abiding resolve to REMAIN STEADFAST in trusting God and living in accordance with His Will, we will continue to grow stronger, wiser, and thus continue maturing in our faith and walk in Christ. Overcoming life's challenges one day at a time may our present focus continue to move us toward the goal.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED BY EACH STEP THAT MOVES US CLOSER TO MATURITY IN CHRIST!
Carl

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