Devotionals

IMPERFECTIONS

by Tammy Ortung 
03/18/20
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Have you ever felt utterly misunderstood? Or had someone close to you throw your Christianity in your face? Have you ever experienced that pivotal moment when you realize your witness has failed in some way? There is nothing more disheartening than to know you did or said something that caused another to view Christianity in a negative light.

Some people believe Christians are supposed to be perfect … maybe because many of us try to act perfect. The problem is that it’s impossible to be perfect. We try to live by the Spirit—in peace, gentleness, goodness, and self-control. But peace and self-control sometimes go right out the door when we feel wronged or attacked by someone we expected to treat us with love and respect. We do not always turn the other cheek as we are called to do, but instead react (and sometimes counter-attack) when we’re hurting or upset.

“For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.  They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.” (Galatians 5:17 NIV)

As long as we live in this fallen world, all Christians will struggle with sinful natures. Why are we so afraid to show our flaws to the world? Are we afraid society will judge us? The truth is people are already judging us, it’s human nature. How much more would God be glorified if we weren't afraid to show our imperfections? It’s not about us! How would it look if we took ourselves out of the equation and put our focus back on God—continuously highlighting the importance of His grace and Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice as the only way to true redemption?