“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7)
By Steve Becker
I can be my own worst critic, especially when my own fallen nature shows itself. His light breaks through my shortcomings. I don’t have to be perfect. God is bigger and brighter than my own inadequacies.
I’ve been leading our housing cooperative through a challenging time. The stakes are high and emotions are strong. At moments discord comes to a crescendo. God has made it clear I must remain calm and pragmatic. “Blessed are the meek, they shall inherit the earth.”
When people are being confrontative rather than collaborative, I am asked to be “gentle and lowly of heart” toward them. Being gentle with myself is another story. I can annoy myself. I’m irritated with my own imperfections. The feelings, judgments, and irritations I have about others makes me defensive. I want to serve my Lord and not let those feelings get in the way and cause more problems.
It’s reasonable to be displeased with my own thoughts and emotions. However, I need to be careful that I don’t become bitter or angry about my imperfections. All anger or irritation against myself is fostered by my own pride and springs from my self-love. When this happens, I must quiet my heart, humbly lifting up my imperfections and frailty, without obsessing that I experience them in the first place. It’s not the first time and won’t be the last. I need to start again and keep moving forward with him.
I should repent if I offend him, but also open myself to the grace he provides, with a deep trust in his mercy, and have a courageous heart. It’s all in his hands anyway. I’m half the man I used to be, even if there’s another half that’s still being worked on.
Pray
Lord Jesus, you told us that in this world we would have troubles. Thank you for using these troubles to change us and change the world. Show your all-surpassing power.
Reflect
What annoys you about yourself when it comes to being his follower? Lift those imperfections up to him and ask him for the mercy and grace you need.
Discuss
Share about the types of situations you’ve fallen short in and how being “meek with yourself” could help going forward.
Steve Becker is a long-time member who participates in the Editorial Board. He and his wife, Carolyn, live in Burnsville, Minnesota.