We have a way of doing things that seems so logical and harmless, yet it leads us astray. We call it perfectionism. It's the voice that tells us to wait for the ideal moment, the perfect scenario, or the flawless timing. It's built on common sense, and it feels right—but it's a trap.

This is a lesson I know too well. I would often drag my feet on an idea, a project, or something I needed to get done because it wasn't "perfect" in my eyes. I wanted all my "i's" dotted and "t's" crossed out before I would even begin. I missed out on opportunities because of this, and I would justify it by saying, "It wasn't God's timing." This became a cycle in my life for a long time, until the Lord chastised me on it.

I learned firsthand how my actions, though seemingly right, were leading me further away from God. Unknowingly, I had turned to myself to make things perfect. I had become the source of knowledge for every aspect of what I was working on. Instead of looking to God, I looked to myself for answers and finishing touches. I was losing my way and missing out on opportunities. This very platform is one such example in my life.

I am so glad I was chastised and given an opportunity to repent. I no longer seek to perfect my way, but I trust that the perfect Lord is the one who will perfect me and my way as I abide in Him.

If you find yourself being critical of everything you do, I challenge you to pause for a moment and reflect: Am I looking to myself, or am I taking guidance from the Lord?

Father, grant me the grace to discern when I am looking to myself and when I am looking to you. Give me the humility to surrender it all to you, letting you fine-tune all that I do. I thank you for every opportunity you have brought my way. It is an honor to serve you through the work of my hands. Amen.