Today’s readings were from Hebrews 13:20–21 and Philippians 4:13.

Hebrews 13:20–21 says:

“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.”

The Context of Hebrews

These verses come at the very end of the book of Hebrews, a letter written to early Christians who were under intense persecution. Many of them were tempted to return to Judaism to escape suffering. The entire letter urges them to persevere by showing that Jesus is better—better than angels, better than Moses, better than the old covenant sacrifices.

This benediction in chapter 13 is a blessing over weary believers: a reminder that the same God who raised Jesus from the dead will strengthen and complete them for every assignment He has called them to.

The God of Peace and Power

In just these two verses, so many aspects of God’s character are revealed:

• The God of peace – He brings calm and wholeness even in chaos.
• The God of power – He raised Jesus from the dead, proving His might over sin and death.
• The Great Shepherd – Jesus laid down His life for us and continues to intercede on our behalf.
• The blood of the everlasting covenant – Unlike the temporary, conditional Mosaic covenant, this covenant is eternal, sealed in Christ’s blood, and cannot be broken.

This is the God who promises to make us complete—equipped, lacking nothing—so we can do His will.

The Great Shepherd Leads, Not Me

Moses’ story in Exodus reminds us how easy it is to doubt our calling because of inadequacy. But Hebrews points us to the Shepherd who equips His sheep.

I don’t have to lead or protect in my own strength. When I try, I risk leading myself—and others—into destruction. But when I stay connected to Jesus, the Great Shepherd, the sheep are safe. The responsibility is His, not mine.

A Word From the Lord

As I meditated on this scripture, the Lord spoke to me:

“I have asked you to step outside of your comfort zone with the assignment I’ve placed in your hands. Fear not. Keep your heart aligned with My will, and I will make you complete in every good work I’ve assigned you to. These assignments are not just for those impacted by your ministry—they also serve to complete you and continue the restoration I began in you.”

This shifted my perspective. I often focus on how my obedience impacts others. But God reminded me that every assignment also restores and completes something in me.

Assignments That Complete Us

We tend to think of God’s assignments as outward-facing—how He wants to use us to serve, encourage, or disciple others. And that’s true. But they are also deeply personal.

The assignments God gives us don’t just change others—they complete something in us.

• Parenting a difficult child isn’t just about raising them—it’s shaping patience and resilience in you.
• Facing financial challenges isn’t just about provision—it’s teaching you to trust God as Provider.
• Saying “yes” to a ministry call isn’t just about those listening—it’s about building your dependence on His Spirit.

Every assignment becomes God’s tool to refine us, stretch us, and prepare us for the next level.

From One Level to the Next

God rarely gives us the “next” assignment until He completes something in us through the “now.” Each season builds on the last.

• One assignment refines your character.
• The next deepens your faith.
• Another expands your courage.

It’s a step-by-step restoration plan. And just like the early Christians in Hebrews needed to endure persecution to prove their faith genuine, we also must endure our assignments, trusting that God is using them to prepare us for greater things in the Spirit.

Practical Challenge

Take a moment to reflect on your current assignment. Maybe it’s parenting, working a demanding job, caring for aging parents, leading in ministry, or simply enduring a hard season.

Ask yourself:

• What might God be completing in me through this?
• What restoration could He be bringing in my heart before He moves me to the next level?

Write it down. Pray into it this week.

Prayer

Father God, thank You for Your peace, power, and everlasting love. Forgive me for agreeing with the lie that I am too weak for the assignments You’ve given me. I know I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Even in my weakness, Your strength becomes my power. Continue to refine me and restore me with every assignment You place in my hands. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*Takeaway: The same God who raised Jesus is making you complete in every assignment. Don’t just look at what He’s doing through you—pay attention to what He’s also completing in you.

Resources I Use

Here are a few tools that help me stay grounded as I study and apply God’s Word:

• Love God Greatly SOAP Journal – my favorite method for breaking down scripture into Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.
• Bible App + Enduring Word Commentary – for comparing translations and gaining deeper context.
• Black Post-it Notes + Metallic Pens – to keep memory verses visible and near me throughout the day.

I pray this devotional encourages you to see your current assignment not as a burden, but as part of God’s process to make you complete. 💛