Being Perfect

Matthew 5:48, "Be PERFECT, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." 

Have you ever struggled over this Scripture? Some people throw their hands in the air and say, "If this is what it means to be a Christian, I can never measure up," and end up walking away from a relationship with Christ or half heartedly serving Him since it is pointless in even trying something that appears unobtainable. 

The word 'perfect' (teleios) in the original language has several meanings.  One definition is "completion," and another is "the appropriate state at the appropriate time."  For instance, a tree that has no leaves in winter is perfect. It is at the appropriate stage for the appropriate time. 

We have to stop comparing ourselves to others and we have to stop pointing the finger and expecting that others be where we are.  I know it is human nature to want to compare sins, place people at different sin degrees.  We play "Let's Compare" instead of noticing the log in our own eye and being grateful that Jesus loves us despite, will meet us where we are, and as long as our heart is to serve and please Him ~ we are in the appropriate state at the appropriate time!

Like any relationship, it takes time to grow.  If it is a relationship that you are cultivating and desiring deeper intimacy, you will pass through different stages to get to that level.  It takes time to develop. Our relationship with Christ is no different.   In a relationship, you will either be moving forward or moving backwards.  There is growth to this thing that must take place.  But I want to encourage you that if your heart is fixed on a sincere desire to follow Christ, you are in the appropriate state at the appropriate time... To God, this is to be perfect.  Without flaw? No, but definitely on your way to completeness...

"And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will continue 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