Many of us spend a lot of time trying to measure up. We want to impress our bosses, coworkers, parents, and spouses. We want our kids to like us, and our friends to approve of our choices. The long list of high standards we want to meet is at best daunting, and at worst, impossible.
The quickest and best way to deal with this pressure is to realize we can’t do it all. In his message “The Good Side of Inadequacy,” Dr. Stanley gives seven reasons our shortcomings can be beneficial if we respond the right way. He says inadequacy can:
- Drive us to God.
- Relieve us of the burden of trying to do God’s will in our own strength.
- Force us to depend upon the Spirit of God.
- Provide the Lord the opportunity to demonstrate what He can do with a little.
- Free God to use us to our maximum potential.
- Allow God to receive all the glory.
- Enable us to live in contentment and quietness.
Admitting we fall short can be difficult. Having to accept our mistakes and come to terms with our weaknesses and failures takes a willing and humble heart. But no matter how painful it may be at first, when we come to terms with our inadequacies, we will be freed from our futile striving. We will be able to enjoy a life full of the Spirit, characterized by His peace, joy, and love.
Written by Linda Canup
