They did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were by works.– Romans 9:32b
Our power lies not in our perfection, but in our pursuit. We are a results-driven people, especially athletes. Perfection is the goal and we do what it takes to get there, even if that means sacrificing what really matters. There is much good in wanting to perform well. However, tunnel vision comes when we place our worth, security, and joy in our idea of perfection. But we can never arrive at perfection. Perfection has no power because it leaves us empty. Pursuit, on the other hand, holds what is real. Pursuit says, “I’m not perfect, but I will do what I can with what I have in the moment I have been given, in the midst of where I am.” In pursuit we find God.
God loves a heart that desires excellence. He is an excellent God and wants us to follow after Him. Yet our rightness with God does not depend on our perfection or our excellence, they will only get in the way of what He ultimately desires—us. He asks simply that we pursue Him as He pursues us; that we seek Him and realize we have been found; that we share life with Him in our ups and downs, excellence, and imperfections; and that we choose faith when everything else looks doubtful. As we pursue Him, we will find power in knowing He sees us perfect through Jesus.
1. How do you deal with imperfection?
2. Are you able to say “I’m not perfect, but I will do what I can with what I have”?
3. How can you find strength knowing that God sees you as perfect through Jesus?
Extra Reading: Isaiah 1:18-19; Luke 10:17-20; Hebrews 4:14-16; 12:1-6
God, help me to truly know and believe that You don’t need me or ask me to be perfect. You ask that I pursue You as You are pursuing me. Help me find my power in the pursuit rather than perfection. Amen.
About the Author:
Loren Thornburg, also known as Thorny, is a former UCSB softball pitcher and FCA Huddle member. Since graduating, Loren has enjoyed numerous opportunities to compete and conduct clinics overseas with Competitive Edge International sports ministry. She received her master of education in counseling while serving as an assistant coach at Augusta State University in Georgia.