Exercise in the Fear of God

There is a saying to the effect that “practice makes perfect,” which also holds true in its deepest sense when it is applied spiritually. We can just think of Jesus’ word that a disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher. Luke 6:40. An apprentice has one main task to fulfill: that he practice what he is taught. Jesus’ disciples are to be trained to live as He lived. Therefore the requirements are strict and the time of apprenticeship is hard and difficult. “Therefore you shall be perfect even as your heav­enly Father is perfect,” and “Follow Me!” Such words of Jesus require our all. He did not commit sin, neither was guile found in His mouth, and He never carried out His own will. This is the kind of forerunner we have who wants to put our feet on this blessed way. We need to exercise ourselves intensely in the fear of God in order to make any progress in these steps. The fact that it is possible for a disciple to become like his Master is both inspiring and encouraging. It is only natural that it goes slowly, otherwise we would not need to exercise ourselves. What the disciple hears is intended to show him everything he is still lacking, creating a sincere desire to be perfectly trained for every good work Neither lack nor difficulties are so great that they cannot be overcome by the fear of God. Here we have an explanation why some people advance evenly and steadily in God’s kingdom, while others experi­ence an up-and-down existence. Depending on how zealous he is, the disciple chooses his own place in relation to his Master. Through regular exercise we will eventually be in fine shape, and the one who is diligent in this area will never lack life and spirit.