Friday, March 14, 2014

God Uses Our Imperfections

I am a perfectionist when it comes to certain areas of my life.  Sometimes I demand too much and feel frustration when I fall short of the standards I have set for myself.  I am often my own worst critic, and it's that little voice in my head that sometimes brings on feelings of inadequacy.

Long ago, I knew that I was not cut out to have an immaculate house, especially when I was raising young children. I cringed at the lack of time spent in prayer and Bible reading, when I let life get in the way.  I would regularly compare myself to women who seemed more polished and fashionable and feel I came up short.   

It has taken years of growing in maturity to realize that in spite of my shortcomings, God can use these very imperfections and failings for good.  Perhaps my slightly messy house has made someone feel more comfortable in my home.  Perhaps when I haven't felt overly polished, someone was more at ease in my presence.  My numerous mistakes as a wife and mother have brought me great wisdom that I have often used to encourage others.

Just the other day, I was being overly critical when rereading my book The Thankful Principle. I should have phrased something differently here or included a certain detail there. I was mentally beating myself up over small things.  However, I realized that it doesn't have to be perfect to change lives. God often uses imperfect things to fulfill his purpose. 

I am grateful that God turns these negative situations and the imperfections in my life into something beautiful. Every day, I want to be more like him. 

2 Samuel 22:31
“As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him."