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Perfection Over Time
As Christian leaders, it's hard to admit our shortcomings. People want us to be perfect, and our own expectations can be extreme. The reality, however, is that life is a journey. Through the slip-ups and hiccups of leadership, God will refine us over time.
Do you feel the pressure to be perfect?
Have you embraced life as an opportunity to grow, or fallen into the trap of pretending to be flawless?
In Luke 2:52, the New International Reader’s Version (NIRV) informs us that
"Jesus became wiser and stronger. He also became more and more pleasing to God and to people."
Find freedom in knowing that no leader is born ready made — no matter what they're called to do. Like Jesus, we will spend a great deal of time, progressively, growing.
Be reminded:
"…Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another — showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us." (2 Timothy 3:14, Message Bible)
A call to ministry does not guarantee immediate perfection. Like gold being refined through a transformative process, God will make us better over time. We'll be tempted to ignore and deny our shortcomings — but if we don't face and admit them, it becomes impossible to refine them. So, as the prominent minister Eric Butterworth once stated, "Don't go through life, grow through life." Our slip-ups and hiccups will help us achieve perfection over time.
Our cry:
Lord, thank you for the opportunity to become wiser and stronger. Like gold being refined through a transformative process, perfect me over time. Please remind me that my call to ministry does not guarantee immediate perfection. Rather, I will grow through life — correcting my imperfections — becoming a better vessel for Your use.
For I am Your handmaiden. I am Your servant.
Recommended reading:
Luke 2:52
2 Timothy 3:14
Marsha DuCille
Publisher/Editorial Director
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This Devotional is provided by CALLED Magazine. Serving women in ministry all over the globe.  |
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