Recently, while having lunch with a good friend, we talked about our families, and teenagers in particular.
I was telling her about things my daughters and I fight about, and she said something that has continued to be on my mind.
It was something to the effect of, “I’m glad to know that you deal with that too. You all seem like the perfect little family.”
Of course she wasn’t happy that I was dealing with this, but she was happy to know that I could relate.
And it has really made me think…
I don’t want to look like a family without imperfections. Because we are definitely not!
I want people to see me and be able to relate.
We spend a lot of time trying to look our best for others. We spend a lot of time teaching our kids to look their best for others.
And in fact, none of us have it all together.
The ones who seem to have it all together are probably the ones who are best at hiding that they don’t.
What if you look like the perfect parent? Or if you look like you have the perfect marriage?
How does this affect others? Who benefits from us looking perfect?
On the other hand, when we are vulnerable; when we are transparent; others will be drawn to us.
It’s hard not to want to conceal our struggles and imperfections. But I believe it is so important to let them be seen.
Not only will we be more approachable and relatable, but it also gives us an opportunity to show the power of God.
In 2 Corinthians Chapter 12, verse 9 it says, “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
I want to have Christ’s power on me! So revealing my weaknesses will also reveal the power of God.
I want others to see an imperfect wife.
I want others to see an imperfect mother.
I want others to see an imperfect daughter.
I want others to see an imperfect friend.
Because that is exactly what I am.
Maybe someone will be able to relate to my struggles.
Maybe someone will ask how I handle the problems in my life.
Then, in that moment, I will have an opportunity;
To tell others that my help comes from the Lord. Psalm 121:2
To tell them that when I’m worried, I pray for peace that passes understanding. Philippians 4:6,7
To tell them when I don’t know what direction to go, that I have One who I trust in, and who will direct my steps. Proverbs 3:5,6
To tell them when I feel too tired to keep going, that my God gives strength to the weary. Isaiah 40:29
To tell them that while we are all so very imperfect, my God is perfect.
“As for God, His way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in him.” Psalm 18:30
