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Perfect Perfectionism
One of the greatest all-time Olympians, swimmer Michael Phelps, has been described as a perfectionist. By reaching for the seemingly impossible and settling for nothing less than the best, he attained his goals and beyond. So, is anything wrong with perfectionism?
Matthew urges us to “be perfect as (our) heavenly father is perfect.” Matthew. 5:48. And, Jesus answered a man trying to achieve salvation through his obedience to law (or through his works), by saying, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell all your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Matthew 19:21.
But Hebrews 7:11 reminds us that perfect attention to God’s law was an unattainable challenge to man. As God’s chosen people worked for His approval and their own salvation, their acts took on greater importance than the heart behind the law. The gap that existed between God and man clearly defined our need for a “better hope,” Hebrews 7:19, which came through our eternally present high priest, Jesus.
Big Question
So, are we to reach for perfection, or not? The answer is found in perspective. Romans 3:23 is a critical verse to keep in mind as we evaluate this issue. All have sinned. Not one of us is perfect. All fall short of God’s glory. So, as we strive to be more Christlike in character, we must, “consider others better than ourselves” (Phillipians 2:13) , and not lord over their imperfections with rigid judgment and a wagging finger from some lofty pedestal! (Matthew 7:1-5)
Only God’s way is perfect (2 Samuel 2:31, Psalm 18:30), and while we must try for perfect faithfulness, perfect peace and perfect unity, we should not look for the external to be perfect nor place an expectation of perfection on others’ behavior and actions.
Hard Thing to Do
This is most difficult for me as a Type-A mom because, as flawed as I am, children are further, still, from perfection. They have little self-discipline, short tempers, and a very long way to go. Their growth is dependent on my gentle guidance and teaching along the way. When I am impatient, I think I am responding to their naturally sinful inability to reach my unattainable goals. Enter grace!
Abundant Grace
I praise God that His grace is sufficient for me. His power is made perfect in (my) weakness! (2 Corinthians 12:9) As a woman who longs to raise my children to know and understand Christ’s power, I must extend and demonstrate grace to them over judgment, and always keep in mind that unfailing love is the greatest of all God’s gifts. (I Corinthians 13:8, 13).
Grace is Perfect!
As a mom, let me daily choose love and grace over perfectionism. Ironically, in doing this, I may come closer to being made perfect!
Copyright © 2008-2015 Lisandrea Wentland
Reader Comments...
| 2009-08-01 20:52:18 "Loved it. The scripture is a great reminder. I am raising a "perfectionist" and although I must temper his reactions at times, I like to remind him how great it is God made him to want to do his best. Throught Christ we can do all things." - Carey |
| 2009-08-01 18:33:54 "Lisa, I love it! I especially love that you have pictures of your children in there too! Such a good job! Love, " - Nancy |
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