Chapter 2: The Flawed Woman

I should have explained what I was doing yesterday, but forgot to. So here is an explanation of whiy I am blogging through this book. I've started reading a book called "When a Woman Meets Jesus" and have decided to blog my process through it. There are “Exploration” and “Inspiration” questions on each “woman” that is being studied. I want this study to really be a candid look into my life and feel like blogging will help keep me accountable in this reading and to get the most from this book. I'd love to hear your thoughts. So email me at lisadavis714@gmail.com.

Questions taken from When a Woman Meets Jesus Chapter 2

Exploration of “The Flawed Woman”

1.      How do I define the word perfect?

I’m not quite sure if I can.   Just the word alone seems untouchable.  Yet, to me, perfect is to be without flaws, beautiful, something you wouldn’t have any other way.

2.      Based on my definition of perfection, I find myself aspiring to be perfect in what area(s) of my life?  Why?  In what area(s) of my life have I achieved, or at least come close to achieving, what I believe to be “perfection”?

Right now I think I find myself striving to be perfect in one way because it would encompass, I believe, all other parts of my life.  I always tell Jordan I want to be the perfect wife.  I think right now that is all I truly aspire to be.  I am sure when I have children I will aspire to be the perfect mom.  I think I aspire to be the “perfect wife” because subconsciously I don’t want him or others to think he’s made a mistake, like I am unworthy of his love.  I think there is also a selfish part of me, too, that wants others to believe I’m perfect, like, if I could fool others I could fool myself. 

3.      In what area(s) have I failed the most?

Keeping up with friends, keeping the house free of clutter, trying to look and feel beautiful.

4.      How does this affect the way I think about myself?

It greatly impacts me.  I want to be a cute, easy going girl, yet I find myself not feeling comfortable.

5.      What qualities would I include on a list describing the “perfect” woman?

Beautiful, kind, compassionate, just, can cook and clean, artistic or crafty, never late, brightens up a room, independent yet welcomes help, can take care of her family, trust worthy, respected, wise, people seek her friendship and advice, dresses fashionably and modestly, seeks God with her whole heart, a confidant, hopeful, can stand on faith, confident in the things she does, the Proverbs 31 woman. 

6.      What qualities would I include on a list describing the “perfect” mother?

I think she must incorporate the things above, yet be transparent in her mistakes.  It’s ok to have made mistakes, but these should become lesson points to her children and encourage them to not make the same mistakes. 

Inspiration for “The Flawed Woman”

1.      After getting acquainted with Mary [the mother of Christ], in what ways has my view of perfection changed?

I’m not sure if my view has really changed.  It’s encouraging to be reminded that even Mary wasn’t perfect, but it makes me wonder how much more flawed I must be.  I know that God would never have chosen me if He were to have sent Jesus today.  And I wonder what made her the perfect vessel to carry God’s Son. 

2.      What qualities made Mary a perfect mother?

I don’t think she was.  She left Jesus in the temple when He was but a boy, she selfishly wanted Him to come with her and leave His ministry for a time being.  Yet when Jesus hurt, she hurt and she treasured the memories and hid them deep in her heart.  It couldn’t have been easy for her.  The pressure she must have felt constantly.  Yet she was able to stand up to it.

3.      What do the biblical words in Matthew 5:48, “Be ye perfect,” mean to me?

Here Jesus is preaching a message of love to the people; to love your enemies to be more specific.  Yet the very next verse opens chapter six and it is about making sure your charitable deeds are not done just so others might see.  I think the two go hand-in-hand.  Perfection isn’t about the things you do or how well you do them, but rather where your heart is in the things you do.  Are you trying to honor yourself, others, or God?  Because ultimately you can’t serve two masters.  We should strive to be like God for He truly is the only perfect Being.

Closing 

The chapter closed by giving three lessons about perfection with three questions to go along.  They were:

1.      I am not perfect because of what I have.  I am perfect because of what he gives. Read Mark 10:45.  How can I serve?

2.      I am not perfect because of what I do.  I am perfect because of what he does. Read Psalm 138:8.  What area of my life do I want God to keep working on?

3.      I’m not perfect because of who I am.  I am perfect because of who he is.  Read John 8:12.  How can his light shine through me?

First I think the best way to serve Him is to live out my daily life to honor and glorify Him and standing up for the things He would stand up for, even if it is not always the most popular thing to do.  I must also be open to the call He has placed in my life and be ready to go where He sends me.  This is a day to day process.  It doesn’t mean moving or going on a mission trip.  It’s a part of life.  I want God to continue working on me wholly.  None of me is perfect, so He can have it all!  I hope His light shines through me every day in all that I do.  I hope He is evident in my life.