What does it mean to be thorough? The dictionary defines it as being “extremely attentive to detail & accuracy; painstaking.” Therefore, as we consider our call as followers of Christ to be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:17), the painstaking processes sometimes required to achieve this goal shouldn’t surprise us. For the word, thorough, when dissected reveals a unique insight – “Tho Rough.” Three primary areas in our life typically require these seemingly rough refinements:

Courage: We may think we’re courageous until God places us in a position of total dependence on Him – when no person, no amount of money & no position of influence can deliver us from our situation. This is a precious, yet painful moment of refinement. Will we remain confident in Jesus & His promises? Or, will we settle for panic, impatience, compromise, doubt & fear? Are you at this type of crossroad in your life? Let us be courageous & thank God for these times – for this is where power & contentment in Christ are fully realized (Philippians 4:12).

Consistency: Do trials, or triumphs interrupt our relationship with Christ? Does our commitment to seek, or serve God fluctuate based upon our circumstances? Thankfully, God assures us it’s possible to possess an unwavering faith – one that empowers us to remain consistent & productive despite our situations (James 1:2-8). After all, there aren’t any circumstantial caveats in the great commission.

Compassion: We may be compassionate, but a close examination of our prayer life may reveal additional opportunities. For example, who do we pray most often for? A friend revealed he began refocusing his prayers after realizing most of his were spent on self-benefitting requests. So, he created “The Dirty Dozen,” which is a list of twelve people, non-family, to be included in his daily prayers. Also, if possible, he suggests letting the individuals know you’re praying for them & to ask what you can pray for. When he did this to me, I was overwhelmed, convicted & immediately incorporated this blessing in my own life. Clearly, praying for ourselves isn’t wrong, but my friend realized a profound truth – loving others is the second greatest command Jesus ever gave (Mark 12:31) & sincere prayers for someone is a powerful way to love.

Application: “Ready To Rumble” – 1 Samuel 17:48
When David faced Goliath, he was fully equipped with a level of confidence in God that empowered him to “run quickly to the battle line” when others wavered. Do we view our trials as opportunities to glorify God? Do we so trust Him that we eagerly run toward the “giants” in our life? These are just a few benefits to our refinement. For God desires the same level of faith for us so that we too may be fully equipped for every good work.

by Dagan Sharpe @ CareerCall.wordpress.com