What Does the Bible Say About Perfectionism? Find Freedom in Christ

Finding Freedom in Christ: What Does the Bible Say About Perfectionism

Are you struggling with perfectionism, feeling like you have to be perfect in every aspect of your life? It’s a common struggle in today’s society, but as Christians, we know that our identity and worth come from Christ, not our own accomplishments. The Scriptures guide us to be pleasing to God—not to ourselves. So, what does the Bible say about perfectionism?

Perfectionism can work as bondage, always pushing us to do better. Like this Content on Facebook When we are constantly trying to achieve more and better, we are not free. But God’s Word says we can (and will) be free when we know the truth (John 8:32). That is the truth of God’s word and His Son, Christ Jesus. Meaning, we should first find out what the truth is… Knowing God’s Word and His directions for our lives will lead us to that freedom in Christ.

In this post, we’re going to dive into what the Bible says about perfectionism and how we can find freedom in Christ. We’ll explore how perfectionism can affect our relationship with God and others, and share some practical steps to overcome it. So, if you’re ready to discover how to find freedom in Christ and break free from the cycle of self-criticism and dissatisfaction, keep reading!

Health Ads by

Types of Perfectionism

Generally, perfectionism is the tendency to expect of oneself or others an extremely high or even a perfect level of performance, more than necessary for the situation. Being a perfectionist is extremely challenging and draining—both to yourself and the people around you. In extreme form, it can lead to depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and other mental health problems.

We serve a perfect God, but He does not expect perfectionism from us, especially not one that causes us and others harm.

There are different kinds of perfectionism that people can experience. Here are three common types:

1. Self-Oriented Perfectionism: This is when you think you need to be perfect in order to feel good about yourself. People with this type of perfectionism are highly self-critical and hold themselves to impossible standards. They may also struggle with procrastination and fear of failure.

2. Other-Oriented Perfectionism: This is when you think other people must be perfect in order for you to be happy. People with this type of perfectionism are critical of others and may struggle with forming close relationships. They might find it difficult to entrust tasks to others and to trust others to do things right.

3. Socially-Prescribed Perfectionism: This is when you think society or other people expect you to be perfect. People with this type of perfectionism may feel pressure to be perfect in order to meet the expectations of others or fit in with a certain group. They also might get really anxious and worry about what other people think.

These types of perfectionism aren’t totally separate, and people can have a mix of them. Plus, perfectionism can show up in different areas of life, like work, relationships, or personal goals.

Is Perfectionism a Form of Pride?

We can consider perfectionism a form of pride, as it often involves an excessive focus on ourselves and our abilities. Perfectionists hold themselves to unrealistic and unattainable standards, which can lead to feelings of superiority or an overestimation of their own abilities. They may also struggle with admitting their mistakes or weaknesses, fearing that it will make them appear imperfect or inferior to others.

When we try to do everything perfectly, it takes away our focus from God. As if we don’t need Him, because we can do perfect things by ourselves. This is a form of arrogance.

However, not all perfectionists are motivated by pride. Some people may struggle with perfectionism because of external pressures, such as societal expectations or a fear of failure. Mental health issues, such as anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder, can also that contribute to perfectionistic tendencies.

Ultimately, whether or not perfectionism is a form of pride depends on the individual and their motivations and attitudes towards perfectionism. It’s important to remember that humility and a willingness to admit one’s mistakes and weaknesses are key components of healthy personal growth and spiritual development. Being humble is the opposite of pride, and ask Christians we are to follow Jesus’ example. Even though He could do everything perfectly, he relied on His Father daily and remained humble.

How to Overcome the Spirit of Perfectionism

If you’re a perfectionist, you don’t have to remain that way. It is possible to overcome perfectionism. Not to say that suddenly you should do ‘imperfect’ things because God still requires excellence from each of us. It is about the focus behind the behavior, it’s about the spirit of perfectionism.

Recognizing Perfectionist Behavior

The first step to overcoming the spirit of perfectionism is simply to recognize the behavior. If you don’t see you are a perfectionist, it will be difficult to stop. Acknowledging you are always trying to be perfect (no matter what the cause of your perfectionism is) is a major breakthrough.

Admitting the Negative Impact

The next thing to do is admit that the behavior is destructive. Not just for yourselves, but also for the people around you. It is only when you admit the negative impact that you will be motivated to change your behavior patterns.

Health Ads by

Some people may believe their perfectionism is good as it pushes them to do ‘perfect’ things. With that thought in their hearts, they will be reluctant to change. As they don’t see any reason to overcome the spirit of perfectionism.

Accepting mistakes

God accepts us exactly as we are, mistakes and all (Romans 15:7). If we were perfect, Christ did not have to die for us. We don’t need to be perfect for God to accept, love, and guide us. No. So, accept your own mistakes (and those of others!). This will help you relax and be less anxious.

Accepting our mistakes is a key step in overcoming perfectionism. When we strive for perfection, we often place unrealistic expectations on ourselves and feel like we have to hide our flaws and mistakes. However, by accepting our mistakes, we can let go of the fear and anxiety that drive perfectionism. We can then develop a healthier and more balanced approach to life.

We can learn to see our mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than as failures that define us. By embracing imperfection and focusing on progress, rather than perfection, we can find greater peace, joy, and fulfillment in our lives.

Focusing on God

Once you recognized and admitted the negativity of it, move your focus to God instead of yourself, your surroundings, and your works. When you move your focus from yourself to God, you remove the bondage of perfectionism. Ask God to help you see what he requires from you.

Trust God to help you accomplish whatever you need to do. Don’t rely on your own capabilities. Proverbs 16 verse 3 says (NLT), “Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” Committing your plans to God first keeps you focused on Him.

Know that your abilities are not your own. God gave them to you. Remembering this will keep you humble and will help you permanently overcome the spirit of perfectionism.

7 Bible verses to overcome Perfectionism pin Pin It

Meditate on Bible verses about Overcoming the Spirit of Perfectionism

When I was thinking about perfectionism in the Bible, the tower of Babel came to mind (Genesis 11:1–9). They wanted to be better and higher than God, trying to build a perfect tower so that they would become famous. We know the result: God scattered them all and made it impossible for them to work together and build the ‘perfect’ tower.

God does not want us to be perfect (as if we even can be perfect…). If we would be perfect, we wouldn’t need God anymore. He wants us to depend on Him. So, how can we break free from perfectionism? By knowing the truth of God’s Word, by reading, studying, and meditating on Bible verses.

A powerful way to overcome the spirit of perfectionism is to meditate on God’s Word. Here are some scriptures you can use to meditate on. But ask God also to show you some Bible verses specifically for you.

You can reflect on these verses, and you can declare them over your life. Declaring the truth of God’s Word is a powerful way to overcome perfectionism.

1 Peter 5:6-7 (NIV)

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

God wants us to be humble, that is when He can lift us up. Perfectionism stems from anxiety. God says we should cast all our worries on Him…. because He will care for us. We don’t need to shoulder all the work ourselves! What a relief! When I got born again, that was the biggest deliverance/relief I felt: I didn’t need to do everything alone and by myself anymore. I realized I have a Father in heaven who cares and will help me.

2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT)

“Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me’.”

Reminding ourselves of God’s grace daily will enable us to overcome perfectionism.

2 Corinthians 3:5

“It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God.”

Whatever ability we have, whatever capacity we rely on, it is all given by God. Reminding ourselves of this will keep us humble and relying on God instead of ourselves.

2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”

If you think you can’t overcome it, think of this scripture. It says you can have the discipline to stop being a perfectionist.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

Trusting God is the ultimate way to overcome perfectionism. This Bible verse will help you focus on exactly that.

Romans 12:2 (NLT)

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

If you feel pressure from the world and people around you to be perfect, meditate on this verse. It will help you focus on God, not yourself. You will also grasp that the only perfect thing that exists is God’s will. Not our own will. Not our work. Not our actions.

These Bible verses remind us we are not alone in our struggles, and that through God’s grace and power, we can overcome the spirit of perfectionism. We can let go of our fears and weaknesses, and trust that God’s plan for our lives is perfect.

Final Thoughts on Perfectionism

Perfectionism can be a challenging mindset to overcome. While there are positive aspects of striving for excellence and doing one’s best, an excessive focus on perfection can lead to negative consequences, including stress, anxiety, and an unhealthy preoccupation with oneself.

It’s important to recognize that perfectionism is often rooted in fear—fear of failure, rejection, or not measuring up to one’s own or others’ expectations. By cultivating a sense of self-compassion, recognizing that mistakes and imperfections are a normal part of the human experience, and seeking support from others, we can learn to let go of our perfectionistic tendencies and find greater peace, joy, and fulfillment in life.

Ultimately, as we grow in our faith and relationship with God, we can find freedom from the spirit of perfectionism by focusing on His grace, love, and acceptance, rather than our own efforts to be perfect.

“God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT)

Before you leave, we would appreciate it if you helped us spread the word by sharing, tweeting, pinning, etc. this post.

About the Author:

Christel Owoo is a Confidence Coach, Mentor, Women’s Ministry Leader, Author, Wife, and Mom. She writes about Bible Study, Christian Living, and Personal Growth on her website, through guest blogs, devotionals, books, and in Christian magazines.

Her ministry is to help Christian women live confidently and victoriously in Christ, to the fullest of their God-given potential. Christel’s books speak of life-changing encounters and second chances when you follow, obey, and apply the Word of God.

To connect with Christel visit: www.christelowoo.com, on facebook, FB-Group-Becoming a Confident Woman in Christ, Twitter, and Instagram.

Help us increase mental health awareness in the Christian community by donating through our paypal link here: www.paypal.com/therapyforchristians, joining our mailing list by clicking below, or join our provider list here: Provider listin g

Disclaimer: the information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this article are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are looking for a Christian counselor near you, please check out our directory located here: Christians Therapist Near Me.