“Perfect”
What is it about that word that people fear to say? Jesus said in Matthew 5:48…” to be perfect,” a command not a request. Would Jesus order us to do what we could not? Of course, He wouldn’t, so if that is true we must be able to obtain it. James 1:4 tells us to “be perfect lacking in nothing and be complete.” In Matthew 19:22, Jesus said, “if you want to be perfect go and sell what you have, give it to the poor and follow Me.” Therefore, by instruction of Jesus there must be away to be perfect. Colossians 4:12 tells us we can stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Hebrews 10:14 tells us that Christ perfected those who are sanctified. That’s you, saved, cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. Psalm 101:2 says, “to behave in a perfect way, walk with a perfect heart.”
Now, Let us consider a few individuals. In Genesis 6:9 it says, “Noah was perfect in his generations.” In Genesis, 17:1 God commanded Abram to be perfect. Deuteronomy, 18:13 God told Israel to be perfect. 1 Kings 15:14 says, “Asa’s heart was perfect with the Lord his whole life.” Job 1:1, says “Job was perfect and upright. We could go on and on with this word that most fear to utter. Some would argue that these scriptures are original “King James.” No, not all of them, some are “New King James.” Others will argue the meaning of perfection. Now that’s where I want to go…
1 Samuel 16:7 God made it clear He does not look at the appearance of man, but at his heart. Not at the flesh, but at the spirit. So while most believe perfection is to be mistake or sin free because their looking at the flesh. God looking at the heart through Christ knows the spirit of a man can be perfect despite the failures of his flesh.
What is “God’s perfect?” Based on many of the same scriptures we have already discussed, the words complete and upright were used. The word complete means: entire, no part lacking, to fulfill, to accomplish and yes according to the Webster Dictionary, perfect. Upright means: honest, just plain honest. God’s view of perfect would be to walk or live life honest. Also, accomplishing, fulfilling, and complete the work or call He has placed on our lives. Despite our failures, mistakes, and shortcomings we must always press forward and never give up.
When satan reminds you of your pass defeats, your failures, and your sin, remember your heart, let your heart speak. Do NOT allow your thoughts to rule the voice in your heart. Do NOT allow your mind to direct your path. Allow your spirit, your God given anointed, completed, honest, perfect heart to be your guide.
This is just a small part of a huge subject; I pray it helps in some way.
Love,
Bishop Keith Conard