Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault…
James 1:4-5a
When I joined the Kindergarten line as they filed into the gym for the First Grader’s annual Amazing Animal Showcase, I expected to hear all about animals. Little did I know, I would also observe a valuable truth that day as well.
I watched as a first grader struggled a bit with his presentation about his animal. A kindergartner noticing the trouble very politely and quietly leaned in and said, “You know, in kindergarten, we sound those words out.” Then he leaned back and continued to listen just as intently as before. The first grader stood up a little taller, relaxed, and went on with his report.
The first thing that struck me was how the younger boy caringly offered help. He did not laugh or make fun of the first grader. The words he spoke also made an impression on me: “in kindergarten, we sound things out.” Those words kept banging around in my head.
Sound things out, I should not leave behind helpful lessons from the past. Those lessons build on one another. They give me the perseverance I need to get through the next chapters of my life.
How can I sound things out in life? The first thing I can do is take everything to the Lord. Just like the little boy, God intently listens. He lovingly guides me to remember past lessons, apply them to different situations, and learn new truths to build on for the future.
God, I do want to be mature and complete in You. As I ask for your wisdom, I relish in the promise that you will give it generously.
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