The Disease of Perfectionism

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” - Romans 3:23 
 
So many people are broken because they have regrets in life. They believe they made a mistake, failed at something, or did not live up to other people’s expectations.  

And because of that, they are constantly unhappy, depressed, and feel inadequate. They look happy on the outside, but within they are empty because, for them, their life has been a failure. These people suffer from the disease of perfectionism.  

Perfectionism can be defined as a very rigid view of life that refuses to accept any standard short of flawlessness. While it masks itself as a pursuit of success and excellence, it is really the pursuit of perfection that leads people on a fast track toward unhappiness and depression in pursuit of an illusion or an impossibility.
 
The reality is that no human being is perfect. Outside of Jesus Christ, no one ever has been or ever will be perfect. Romans 3:23 famously reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  

It does not matter how hard we try. Even with our best efforts, we will fall short. Chasing perfection is a recipe for disaster. We will always be disappointed in seeking an unattainable outcome.  

However, there is good news. God isn’t looking for perfection. He is looking for obedience. Perfectionism relies on self. Obedience relies on God.  

Do not fall into the disease of perfectionism. You were never meant to be perfect. God wants you to pursue Him. And in doing so, the outcome will work out in your favor. Give yourself a break. You are human and will make mistakes. But the goal is to get back up when you fall and keep going!