I am a type “A” perfectionist. My husband calls it “being intense” and my mom calls it “the fun governor.” I have high expectations of everything; my life, my career, my friends, my husband, and kids. But there is no higher expectations than the ones I have for myself; I am bound and determined to be perfect. Spoilers, I am far from perfect. I get stuck in this loop of expecting perfection, failing, then defining my worth by my failures. I got annoyed with my family, work project wasn’t perfect, love cake too much to give it up and lose five pounds.
Lamentations tells us,
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is [His] faithfulness.”
Take a minute to really process that; God’s love never stops! His mercy and forgiveness go on FOREVER. He is the most faithful. He is not disappointed in us: Paul tells us our weakness is made strong in Christ. When I am crabby with my husband and exhausted by my children, the God of the universe is standing there waiting to bestow his mercy and loving gifts on me to carry me through. All I have to do is accept it!
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Maybe you have failed big and are carrying a lot of shame and brokenness. God’s mercy and steadfast love are waiting for you. He is faithful and will heal your hurting heart. Maybe you are a mom struggling with your identity as you care for your littles. God has an identity for you and his strength will carry you through this season.
Maybe you have never allowed yourself to experience God’s steadfast love. I would encourage you today to try it; ask him to reveal his love for you.
-Pastor Paula Laymon