Recap
How does remembering God’s unconditional approval free us?
Main Thought
Pursuing perfection and clinging to comfort. These two things are on opposite ends of a spectrum, and they’re ultimately spiritual problems. Both promise to fulfill us on a deep level - and both fail to deliver! Perfection causes us to strive physically and emotionally; sometimes, it’s motivated by some insecurity. Clinging to comfort can feel good, but it can also cause us to miss God-given opportunities and waste God-given talents. We should allow God to keep us centered. We need to give God our best, because our efforts glorify Him - and we need to rest and trust in His goodness.
Main Passages
20 For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.
- Romans 3:2033 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
- John 16:3315 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life —is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
- 1 John 2:15-17
Discussion Questions
There are three types of perfectionism: self-oriented (I need to be perfect), externally-oriented (things need to be perfect), and others-oriented (you need to be perfect). When was the last time you struggled with one of these kinds of perfectionism? How did the struggle make you feel?
Seeking comfort without God (counterfeit comfort) requires no faith and causes us to run from our problems; seeking comfort in God builds faith and helps us face our problems. How have you seen “counterfeit comfort” play out in your life?
Apply
Look for ways to prioritize giving love and grace to those around you, or reach out to someone who needs comfort.