Scripture
James 1:3, 4
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
John 5:6-8
When Jesus saw him…He saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man…to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked.
James 5:14
Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.
Thought for Today
Every believer in Christ can relate countless testimonies about God’s deliverance in times of trouble. He’s faithful to relieve us from pain, financial burdens, and sometimes our own minds. When God answers prayer, we immediately feel more like ourselves as we shout a grateful, “Thank You Lord!” For the moment, life seems back to “normal.”, or whole again. Yet, God sees you as totally complete before, during, and after the trials you face.
In fact, James 1:2-4 is a reminder that testing and trials should be considered joyful, since patience is produced during these times. Rather than feeling rejected and unworthy, know that when you face adversity your patience is perfected. You are entirely whole and lack nothing! Your position as a child of God by the sacrifice of His Son Jesus makes you an heir to the heavenly kingdom. As such, your location or circumstances have no effect on your value.
You have this heavenly assurance by the inspired Word of God. Romans 8:31 says you are more than a conqueror. 1 John 5:4 proclaims you have the victory that overcomes the world. These and many other scriptures affirm that you are whole in Christ, without regard to your earthly situation. God’s Word offers you the keys to maintaining this state of blessed completeness.
For instance, when Jesus healed the man in the pool of Bethesda, He first asked whether he wanted to be healed. The Lord listened to his answer and then spoke immediate healing, which the man received. Later, Jesus reminded him not to sin again lest he suffer a worse fate. You too must have the desire to be whole, hear and obey God’s instructions, and live your life in holiness.
Jesus affirmed that faith is also a direct link to healing. Two of these instances include when He healed the woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9:22) and the leper (Luke 17:19). 1 John 5:4 makes it clear that faith is the victory that overcomes the world. The Lord God sees you with nothing missing, through eyes of redemption and love. Let prayer and the World help you build up your faith and holiness and live in wholeness with confidence.
“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.” 1 Peter 1:15
It’s Time to Pray!
Father God, thank you for fashioning me as a complete and new creation. Your grace and mercy are limitless. You supply everything I need according to the riches of Your power. Help to live a life that is pleasing in Your sight. In the name of Jesus. Amen