I brought glory to You here on earth by completing the work You gave Me to do” – John 17:4.
As I sit with this powerful verse from Jesus’ prayer, I’m struck by its beautiful simplicity and challenge.
Here is Jesus, near the end of His earthly ministry, able to say with certainty that He completed the work the Father gave Him to do. What an incredible testament to faithfulness!
Pause and reflect deeply on this verse. Jesus knew His purpose. Every action aligned with His Father’s will—from healing the sick to teaching in parables, from disciplining twelve ordinary men to preparing for the ultimate sacrifice on the Cross. He wasn’t distracted by the expectations of others or swayed by easier paths.
Even when faced with the cup of suffering, He remained steadfast, saying, “Not My will, but Yours be done.”
This verse challenges me to ask: Can I say the same when I stand before God? Have I been faithful to His unique calling on my life?
These questions aren’t meant to burden but inspire us toward greater faithfulness.
You see, faithfulness isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. It’s not about never making a mistake or never feeling weak. Just as Jesus stayed true to His mission despite opposition, weariness, and even betrayal, we are called to keep serving, loving, and sharing the Gospel until our final breath.
It’s about getting up when we fall, seeking forgiveness when we sin, and continuing to walk in God’s ways.
This doesn’t mean we won’t face seasons of doubt or exhaustion. Even Jesus experienced moments of human weakness. The difference is that He pushed through, remained obedient, and finished strong.
Remember, your calling might look different from others. Perhaps God has called you to be a faithful parent, a dedicated teacher, or a compassionate neighbor.
Your ministry can happen anywhere. Be it in an office, a classroom, or a coffee shop. The venue doesn’t matter—what matters is your faithfulness to whatever God has entrusted to you. Your unique calling could be in the form of a talent, a role, or a specific mission that resonates with your heart and aligns with God’s will.
Don’t measure your faithfulness by worldly standards of success. Instead, ask yourself: Am I being obedient to what God has called me to do? Am I using my gifts to serve others? Am I bringing glory to God through my daily choices?
The beautiful truth is that God doesn’t expect us to do everything. He only expects us to do what He’s given us to do. Jesus focused on the specific work the Father gave Him.
Let Jesus’ example of unwavering faithfulness inspire us. May we commit to serving, not just when convenient or comfortable, but until God calls us home.
May we live so that when we reach the end of our journey, we too can say, “Father, I have completed the work You gave me to do.”
Lord, help us to be faithful in the tasks You’ve given us. Grant us strength when we grow weary, wisdom when we feel lost, and persistence when we face obstacles. May our lives bring glory to You, just as Jesus did. Amen.
Exploring Our Faith: Questions for Reflection
1. What does it mean to you to complete the work that God gives you, and how can you identify what that work is?
2. How can you stay focused on your mission from God when faced with challenges and distractions?
3. Why is it important not to measure faithfulness by worldly standards of success?