For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God,
with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through
Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.
ROMANS 3:23–24 NLT
Have you ever met someone who seems to be perfect in every way? Perfect
grades. Perfect clothes. Perfect family. Doesn’t seem fair, does it? How come
she and her life are perfect and you and your life aren’t?
Truth is, no one and no thing is perfect—except God. Some people and their
lives might seem that way, but they’re really not. And it’s because people are
not perfect that we need God so much! So don’t let your flaws and your messups
keep you from realizing that you are all God wants you to be. After all, He
doesn’t expect you to be perfect. (What a relief, right?)
So does that mean you shouldn’t keep aiming for excellence? Of course not!
God wants you to do the best you can. But remember that even when you mess
up (and you will), you can run back to Him and ask for forgiveness and
guidance. He’ll forgive all of your sins then whisper, “I love you, precious
girl! Now walk this way.”
Dear Lord, thank You for not expecting me to be perfect!
It helps to know You will always love me, in spite of my mess-ups!
— Janice Hanna
Magica 