Weekly Devotional: Perfect Imperfection

“Actually, no one is perfect – apart from Jesus. But God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son to die for us.” – John 3:16

We are far from perfect, yet we are in constant pursuit of perfection. Why is that? Why do we feel the need to have perfect grades, a perfect life or that perfect job? God knows that perfect people do not exist. In fact, God’s people were far from perfect.

The apostle Paul explained an even more profound reason to let go of our own efforts to perfect ourselves: it can blind us to our need for Christ.

Paul had learned this the hard way. After years of striving to perfectly obey God’s law, his encounter with Jesus changed everything (Galatians 1:11-16). Paul realized that if his own efforts were enough to be whole and right with God, “then there was no need for Christ to die” (Galatians 2:21). Only in his imperfection could he experience God’s perfect power.

We will always be a work in progress. If we were perfect, we would not be in pursuit of the one true perfect God. This is why God is in constant pursuit of our hearts. He wants us to fix our eyes to Him. God’s love for you will always be unconditional. There is nothing you can do to make God love you less. The next time you feel imperfect or feel you don’t have the perfect life, remember that God’s perfect love will fill those empty spaces. His perfection is enough, and your imperfection draws you back to Him.

The next time you need a reminder that God’s love is more than sufficient, lean on the truth of Scripture:

“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” – 1 John 4:16

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 

Remember you are loved right now. Not just when you have perfect grades, not just when you have the perfect job. Right now. Just as you are: perfectly imperfect. Reflect on His everlasting love and remember that the perfect God of the universe chooses to love you over and over again. Lastly, respond. Write down someone you know that needs to be reminded how loved they are.

Grand Canyon University is committed to following the Lord in all circumstances. If you would like to learn more about GCU’s Christian identity and heritage or would like to read more devotionals please visit our website and check out the GCU Blog. Learn more about the College of Theology and their degree options by checking out our website or requesting more information with the button on this page.