Perfectionism

I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:13–14

Striving for excellence is generally an acceptable way to live life. We strive for excellence in school because our efforts might result in a reward that will help with our future education. We pursue excellence at work to advance in our field. And when we fail, many of us simply learn and move on. However, if we start shifting toward perfectionism, we can find ourselves headed down an unhealthy path.

Perfectionism is two sides of the same coin. On one side, perfectionistic traits can help us be deliberate and methodical in how we live. On the other side, those perfectionistic traits can make us overly critical and unforgiving of ourselves when we make a mistake. We run the scenario through our minds, analyzing and reanalyzing our behaviors, trying to identify the one area that caused us to miss the mark. We compare ourselves to others, always trying to be the best. We might lack the flexibility to try a different route. Staying on this path can bring us to a place of regret, despondency, and depression.

In God’s family, we are accepted as is, with all our flaws and shortcomings. He does not require us to be perfect. God invites us to take our eyes off ourselves and fix them on him—the only One who is perfect. Then we are free to pursue godly things, knowing that when we make a mistake, Jesus has already forgiven and will restore us.

The goal is excellence (in his name), not perfection.

We are not called to pursue perfection; we’re called to pursue Christ, who is perfect.

Shelia Walsh

God is looking for imperfect men and women who have learned to walk in moment-by-moment dependence on the Holy Spirit. Christians who have come to terms with their inadequacies, fears, and failures. Believers who have become discontent with “surviving” and have taken the time to investigate everything God has to offer in this life.

Charles Stanley

Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together.

Brené Brown

For Further Reflection

2 Peter 1:3; 2 Corinthians 10:12

Today’s Prayer

Father, you are the only one who is perfect. I ask that you send your Holy Spirit to help liberate me the performer, the perfectionist. Help me to see myself as you see me. And give me the grace to see others as you see them. Amen.