1 Corinthians 5:28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.
Do you know what all is? I do not. I only know in part, and in that I am not perfect. While I strive to love, I do not perform that perfectly. While I strive for grace, I do not perform that perfectly. While I strive to be wise, I do not do that perfectly.
Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
How does God balance all that He is in quality and character so that every aspect of who God is perfect and in balance? How does He balance being just and merciful perfectly at the same time? As much as I would like to be in balance in all that I am, no part of me is perfect in performance, much less in balance.
Consider that God’s understanding of who we are is perfect. Jesus encourages imperfection to be perfect. Is that possible? Would a gracious God ask of us that which is impossible? Consider that He is perfectly gracious and perfectly sovereign. How can He reconcile those two things?
Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
As much as it lies within you is the first qualifier, meaning that it is possible or within your ability. Perfect is the highest state of achievement within the realm of one’s ability. Being a new creature in Christ means growth does not happen all at once, but in stages. You learn to stand, then walk, then run.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
You get to be perfect in transformance only after you have first become good and then acceptable in that stage of growth. Then you change because you have grown and are capable of more which means your potential is greater and perfection is still within your grasp, but not instantly.
In the end, when Jesus Himself becomes subject to the Father, we who are in Him, will all be perfectly in balance of all the quality and character of God who will be ALL in ALL.
God’s perfect balance was shown also at Calvary…Psalms 85:10…mercy and truth are met together, righteousness and peace have kissed each other. I sure am thankful to be “in Christ” and have the privilege to grow….grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thanks for pointing our hearts to Jesus, this morning.
Here’s another necessary balance, Ron and Larry: growing in grace and knowledge – Ron, you and I were raised heavy on the knowledge part I fear. Praise The Lord for teaching us some grace!
Amen, dear brother Fred. I am so thankful to be able to “enlarge my coasts” and focus on “that which is really life”. Jesus is not knowledge, but a loving relationship that embraces, grace, love, mercy and the whole heart of our loving Father.