Rev. Claudia & Dr. Timothy Emerick
Missionaries of the Cross
I Corinthians 1:18
Don’t Give Up on Yourself—God Hasn’t
“And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will continue it until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.” Philippians 1:6 (AMP)
Sometimes we become so fed up with ourselves that we want to give up. We make promises that we are going to lose weight, stop smoking, stop drinking, exercise, control our temper, stop talking about others, stop being jealous or controlling, pray more, and read more Scripture—yet we fail miserably. The more we try, the more discouraged we become when we fall short.
In one way, this struggle is actually a good thing, because if we could fix ourselves completely on our own, we would not need God. God has made a tremendous promise: He will finish the work He started in us, as long as we remain open and responsive to Him.
God works in our lives in many ways to shape us into the image He has for us. When we ask for patience, God may bring a difficult person into our lives to love. When we struggle with jealousy or control, God may put us in situations that bring those emotions to the surface so we can recognize them, repent, and ask for His help. Often, God will also bring a trusted friend—someone walking the same path—who can help us see the areas where we are struggling. Scripture tells us that as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Over the years, I know the Lord has changed me. I am not yet the person I want to be, but I am no longer the person I used to be. I have learned that I am no surprise to God. When I fail or fall short, it does not shock Him. God knew exactly who I was and what my struggles would be when He created me.
God is not disappointed in you, because you are His masterpiece in the making. Nothing can change the love He has for you. No matter how many times you fail, God is there to lift you up. He will always be with you, because He created you—and He will continue refining you, little by little, over time. Rejoice in what God has already done in you, and in what He will continue to do.