Key Words: Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect
We often make life difficult for ourselves by setting unrealistic goals. Others make life difficult for us because of their unrealistic expectations of us.
Our life and work within the Christian community will go much better if we acknowledge our own shortcomings and do not make unreasonable demands on others. Adoniram Judson wrote, “In encouraging other young men to come out as missionaries, do use the greatest caution. One wrong-headed, conscientiously obstinate fellow would ruin us.” Then he described the sort of person he preferred: “Humble, quiet, persevering men; men of sound, sterling talents (though, perhaps, not brilliant), of decent accomplishments, and some natural aptitude to acquire a language; men of an amiable temper, willing to take the lowest place, to be the least of all and the servants of all; men who live near to God, and are willing to suffer all things for Christ’s sake, without being proud of it, these are the men.” Then Judson added, “But oh, how unlike this description is the writer of it!”
Some one unknown to me once said, “We make unrealistic demands of our pastors, their wives, and other Christian leaders, and we judge them unfairly. But the work of Christ will get done more quickly and efficiently if we recognize the value of others and admit that we too have shortcomings. Then, as we do our best, we can admit that like everyone else we are not perfect yet!”
But you have to admit, those with unrealistic ideas and thoughts can make life hard for us all.
What to do:
✞ Have goals for yourself but make them realistic. Be realistic in your expectations of others.
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