November 9
As the oldest of four children, I was expected to achieve, to accomplish, to be a good example, to look after the others, to be perfect. It has scarred me, placed too much stress on me, somewhat alienated me from my siblings, and in perspective, colored my attitudes and diminished my sensibilities.
But God is healing me of that stain of self-sufficiency, and life’s blows have taught me the humility and balance I was lacking. I am learning to trust in God’s sovereignty, disciplining myself to ask God’s guidance before and during a project, rather than starting out on my own, trusting in my own sense of adequacy. I am unlearning years of bad habits, but rejoicing at each baby step.
Today’s Scripture: “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe, as you hold out the word life…” (Philippians 2:14-15)
Prayer: Dear Lord and Father of us all, take my feeble efforts in following you, redeem them, and use me even in my brokenness, even with my foolish reliance on my own will. Use me, broken vessel that I may be, to Your glory, and help me to further reflect the Spirit of Christ as I live my life. Be very present in my thoughts and attitude. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
November 9 Thanksliving Journal: Perfectionism
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November 9 Thanksliving Album:
Items, pictures, sketches, photos showing my do-it-myself perfectionism when I trusted myself and my accomplishments, a legacy of memories, a place I’ll return when I need reminders of evidence of His love for me in every situation.
Scripture references showing Almighty God’s power and man’s recognition of that power.
Psalm 8
“As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.” (Psalm 103:15-17)
“All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart.” (Proverbs 21: 2)
“Who can straighten what he has made crooked? When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future.” (Ecclesiastes 7:13-14)
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” Ecclesiastes 9:10)
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)
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