I love excellence and I even battle against perfectionism from time to time. But there are times I find speed more desirable than precision. As evidence, behind every picture on my walls is a cluster of tiny pinholes. It’s no wonder that the occasional picture falls from its place. After all, I can’t expect much from a technique that relies on a hairbrush in lieu of a hammer, and a good eye instead of a tape measure. My attempts simply seemed faster than measured accuracy.
We can’t choose expediency in spiritual pursuits and expect to remain anchored in the will of God, especially when we face hardships. Paul reminded his readers in Corinth that “Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe” (2 Corinthians 4:4). And some participants in the deeds of darkness created havoc for believers—sometimes even to the point of death (2 Corinthians 4:11-12). Battles rage in the spirit realm. The force is no less vigorous than if we could feel the stinging arrows striking our physical bodies (Ephesians 6:12).
As fragile beings, we are often fear-ridden and beset by doubt. Yet God loved us enough to speak light into our darkness. Far more than an aesthetic adjustment, Paul’s admonition to “fix our gaze” is the choice between a superficial faith requiring little and the rock-solid decision to remain steadfast (2 Corinthians 4:18).
Unmoved by circumstances, true faith rests on the surety of God at work in mortal humanity, a belief that “though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day” (2 Corinthians 4:16). It is, in essence, the conviction that He is at work in us (1 Corinthians 1:8-9).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
More:
Read Matthew 7:13-29 and consider the traits of a faith built on sand as compared to one built on the rock.
Next:
Have you been tempted to “cut corners” in times of difficulty? What does it mean for you to remain steadfast and still be real about the struggles you’re facing?
Tom Felten on March 26, 2014 at 8:49 am
Thanks for these encouraging insights, Regina. And as Paul wrote, “I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns” (Philippians 1:6). Praise God that He is not through working in us!
Regina Franklin on March 30, 2014 at 8:23 pm
Yes! We are a great piece of art in process–I am so grateful He sees His reflection in me and works with His gentle strength to see it to completion.
Winn Collier on March 30, 2014 at 8:09 pm
To be fixed, intent, in one place, watchful – this is good invitation.
Regina Franklin on March 30, 2014 at 8:21 pm
I love the word picture that comes with the scripture of being still and knowing that He is God–as if we had fastened ourselves around Him and we move or stay still only as He does. Excellence is sitting at His feet.