Philippians 1:6: He Who Began A Good Work

Philippians 1:6
[6] And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (ESV)

I am not a very good carpenter. Ironically, one of my favorite things to do is carpentry! I do not have a whole lot of natural talent in carpentry. I have not been trained. I am also pretty clumsy, so there is a good chance that I will get hurt in the process of my building project. One of the things that I have always been impressed with is someone who can do finish carpentry.

It's one thing to get a project started. It's quite another thing to finish the project! I have started many things that are still waiting to be finished. They likely never will be finished. A finish carpenter is one who makes all of the work look perfect. The final coat of paint.  All of the trim work and molding applied. The decorative touch added.

What does all this have to do with Philippians 1:6? Everything! I want to remind you that Jesus, God's Son, and a carpenter's son, is a finish carpenter. You are a project that he began. Unlike my incompetent bumbling at carpentry, the Savior created the universe. He has experience in building things. And he knows how to make all things beautiful. He adds the finishing touch.

Are you frustrated as you look at your life? You want to be done with battling certain sins, but they still rise up and tempt you. Are you discouraged by the shame of past failings? Do you feel like you will never look like the beautiful bride of Christ that he has called you to be? Be encouraged! The work of making you what you are supposed to be is the work of a finish carpenter. Jesus is that finish carpenter. He began the work. He will complete it. And you will have all of eternity to thank Him.

As you look at the imperfections in your life remember that the finish carpenter is working on them. You do not need to despair. Keep your eyes on Jesus. He will finish the work.