Christian Living

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Being Perfect?
© 2011

by

Stephen A. Peterson


“Hey, Specialist! You’ve got to get real! For whatever reason, you’re such a darn perfectionist! You fuss, complain and show your subordinates up when their uniforms have a single wrinkle; their brass not exactly set correctly or their tie not perfectly in place. Heck, you’re not a First Sergeant so why should you think anyone should listen to you!” complained Army Specialist Darrell Walker of Specialist Brad Lonelodge.

“I believe you’re making a big mistake Lonelodge! You’re, I think; brown nosing trying to move up in rank and trying to impress the powers that be. I don’t think you’re as good as you seem to think you are. In fact, what you’re doing is unrealistic for you and everyone else. You’re not real to me at all! If you don’t cut it out, you’re doomed to fail. One of these days, you’re going to get somebody hurt maybe even killed with the way you act. I think you’re nuts Lonelodge!”

After listening to his peer’s statement, Specialist Lonelodge made a conscientious effort to evaluate his behavior towards his peers and subordinates as well as his outlook on life. Confused and rattled, he sought the counsel and advice from Chaplain Peter Cantrell.

“Chaplain, yesterday I was called out by one of my peers as an unrealistic perfectionist. I’ve tried to evaluate myself but I’m having a hard time.”

“Well, are you, Specialist?”

“I don’t know. I just think I and my subordinates ought to be the best that we can be. I’ve read the biographies of really famous people and their methods of leadership. What I read really impressed me so I began using some of their methods and ideas. I don’t want to do exactly what they did. I want to lead in my own way. Chaplain, isn’t that what the Army is all about—leadership and being the best you can be?”

“Well, let’s see what God has to say about the matter.” Turning around to his book shelf, Chaplain Cantrell took down his Bible. “Ah, let me see! Yes, here it is! Jesus commanded us to be ‘perfect’ as our Heavenly Father is perfect. Now what does that mean?

‘Perfect’ does not mean being right in all things and being a know-it-all. Additionally, Jesus tells us to be ‘holy’. That is, being willing to let God be in control of our life. Then come to the recognition that growing spiritually is a lifelong process and complete perfection comes when we get to heaven.

In the process of growing, constantly re-assess our growth through prayer and Scripture reading—letting God talk to us. And being who you are and do what you need to do in accordance to your self-evaluation with His guidance.

Each and every person is uniquely created by God. God expects you to be and do what he created you to be. And when you make a mistake, know that God hold no grudges. All God wants you to do is ask for forgiveness and know that you are forgiven. When you have God on your side, you can’t lose. Be aware that when you suffer hard times that it’s not punishment but God testing you. He won’t let you suffer beyond your ability to withstand His tests.”

“Gosh, Chaplain, I understand better what God wants. Thanks, I really appreciate all of your guidance.”

“Well, thank you, Specialist but that’s God at work! Not really me. I’m just doing what He’s telling me to do!”

After listening to Chaplain Cantrell, Specialist Lonelodge left his office feeling very about his conference. He learned that he is unique. He also came to realize that he does not have to measure himself against someone who collects more food for the poor; possess more wealth; or has more friends.

Echoing through his mind were the words of Chaplain Cantrell: “Be perfect in accordance to what Jesus said is perfection—be who you are that I made you to be. Accept that you are work in progress. Not a flawless person but one who is forgiven doing what I command you to do in the course of My daily work for you.”

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