This past weekend, I began a new 3-week teaching series called “Perfectionism Unveiled.” The reason that I chose to start the New Year with this series is because I believe that in this irrational and imperfect world that we live in, every one of us comes to our adult life with some damaged areas in our personality. These are often scars caused by painful hurts in our past – buried deep within us – that directly and profoundly affect the way we look at life, at God, at others and ourselves.
Perfectionism can be described as the constant feeling of never doing well enough or being good enough – and its effects on us and the people around us. The first teaching in this series entitled “When Good is Not Quite Good Enough” can be heard on our website podcast. Here we talk about fear of failure, fear of making mistakes, fear of disapproval, all-or-none thinking, and an over emphasis on “oughts” and “should.” We also acknowledged that there is good news in Jesus’ words found in Matthew 11: 28: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” There is only one ultimate cure for perfectionism and it is as profound and simple as the word “grace.” God accepts us as we are and He meets our sin and imperfections with His grace.
I’ve heard from some who were impacted by this teaching. One said, “The story you told about Don in your message…that is my life. I’m Don.” Another wrote: “If you want to get to know me on a deeper level, this message was like taking a page out of my life.”
This coming weekend we’ll be talking about how “Healing is a Process.” It is not a quick cure but God will be with us every step in the process. We’ll also begin to explore the root causes of our distorted concepts and damaged emotions – brought on by unpleaseable parents and unpredictable home situations. We’ll also focus on unmasking deep seated anger and resentments. And of course, the good news…that through Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the Cross healing can and does happen if we will be honest with ourselves and be open to His love and grace.
Let us know how your life is being impacted by these teachings.
Rod
