When I start a task, I like to see it completed. For example, last week I had every intention to mow my lawn. I began to cut the grass and things were going quite well. But then it began to rain, so I had to go inside and wait for a better time to finish it. I'm sure that my neighbours laughed at my partially completed lawn as they drove by. I didn't find it as funny, though, as I wanted to finish cutting the grass right away.

When it comes to spiritual development, we can look at our lives in a similar way. We may experience circumstances where we feel as though things are left in limbo as fear, doubt, pain, sin or whatever else rains down on us. But we don't have to worry if we place our trust in Jesus Christ.

Although everything started well with cutting my lawn, circumstances quickly changed. In Philippians 1:6, Paul says that, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

When God starts a project, he completes it. He will help you grow in grace and strengthen you. When you become discouraged, remember that God hasn't given up on you. He promises to finish the work he has begun in your life. When you feel incomplete, unfinished or distressed by your shortcomings, have confidence in God's promise and provision. Don't let your present condition rob you of the joy of knowing Christ or keep you from growing closer to him.

By the way, my lawn now looks great. Perhaps even the envy of the neighborhood.

Captain Kristian Simms is the corps officer of Glace Bay, Nova Scotia. His pursuit in life is to live every day to the fullest for Christ. He has a strong passion and love for youth ministry and cheers for the greatest hockey team of all time: The Montreal Canadians. He has been married for eight years to Lesley, the best lady in the world. He also has a really cute dog named Mickey.