When You’re Tired of Trying to Be Perfect
There is a quiet exhaustion that comes from always trying to get faith right. Not just sincere effort—but the sense that you are never quite measuring up.
You try to obey carefully. You examine your motives. You revisit past mistakes. And still, rest feels just out of reach.
If you are tired in this way, it does not mean you lack discipline. It may mean you have been carrying a burden Scripture never placed on you.
“It is finished.”
John 19:30
These words do not dismiss obedience. They locate it properly.
Jesus did not say, “Now you must finish it.” He declared the work of redemption complete.
Perfectionism says, “Do more so you can rest.” Grace says, “Rest—and then walk faithfully.”
Many believers confuse growth with flawlessness. But Scripture never describes maturity as the absence of weakness. It describes maturity as dependence.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Weakness does not disqualify you from God’s work. It is often the place where His grace becomes most visible.
Perfection-driven faith constantly looks backward—counting failures. Faith rooted in grace looks forward—walking one step at a time.
God does not ask you to be flawless. He asks you to be faithful.
Faithfulness is not measured by how little you stumble, but by whether you keep returning to Christ.
You are allowed to learn. You are allowed to grow slowly. You are allowed to be human.
God is not disappointed by your need for grace. Grace is the very thing He has chosen to give.
If you are tired, let this be enough for today: you are held by Christ, not by your performance.
You may also find rest here:
To the Anxious Believer
Salvation by Faith, Not Fear
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