Man’s limitations are many. They include, but are not limited to, physical, intellectual, moral, and spiritual limitations. The Bible describes many limitations, and they all center around or lead back to our need for God. It does not matter how strong or fit we become; we will eventually die. Psalms 103:14 reminds us just how frail and weak we are when it states, “For He knoweth our frame; He remembered that we are dust.” We are then reminded in Hebrews 9:27 that we all have an appointment with death and will in the end be judged. Proverbs 3 warns that we are not as smart or intelligent as we think and cautions that we should trust in God and not rely on our abilities or knowledge. As humans, we tend to have a higher opinion of ourselves than is usually the case. We think of ourselves as being of high character and moral standing. Romans 3 reminds us that we all fall short and are involved in sin. Our spiritual limitations are constantly being challenged, and we all seem to question just how spiritual we really are. We are limited in our understanding of what God expects of us simply because we do not operate on the same plane as God. Referring back to Proverbs, we forget to give it to God and try to do it ourselves. We are reminded in First Corinthians 2 that the natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. We are incapable of such understanding.
So, how can we improve and not be subject to so many limitations? Can we limit our limitations? We should first determine our limitations and plan to eliminate or at least improve them. The first hurdle will be honoring the commitment to change—very easy to say but hard to accomplish. Second Timothy 2:15 suggests that we present our best to God. Every problem has a solution if we work to find it. We have to be proactive and look for solutions. Philippians 4:13 tells us we can do all things through Him who strengthens us. When we start to doubt, we need to converse with ourselves and encourage ourselves. This is a good time to remember we are never alone. Romans 8 suggests that the Spirit will be there to help us in our weakness. It is said that the longest trip starts with the first step. With this in mind, it is essential to set small goals that we can achieve to encourage the next step. Proverbs 21 tells us that the diligent plan leads to abundance. Many times, our limitations are bigger than what we can handle by ourselves, and we need to call on others for help. There is no shame in asking for help. As a matter of fact, asking for help shows confidence and intelligence by avoiding failure. Matthew 7:7 tells us to ask and it will be given, seek and you shall find. When looking to others for their input, be careful not to allow the negative people around you to dash your plan to better yourself. Others may not have your best interest at heart, and their jealousy may come out before their good intentions arrive. James 4:7 suggests that we submit to God and resist the devil. When trying to eliminate our limitations, we will probably solve several and, in doing so, find several more that will need work. We can not allow these new limitations to discourage our progress. Look at how much we have accomplished, and be happy and enjoy the progress. We must make every effort to maintain a positive attitude, continue to build our confidence, and stay positive in all we do. Do not fall into Satan’s trap of talking ugly and being mean to yourself. The better you do and the more positive your accomplishments, the harder Satan will work to damage the good works that have been done. Keep in mind that Proverbs 17:22 reminds us that a joyful and happy heart is good medicine.
Why is it essential for us to work on eliminating our limitations? We are built in God’s image, and He wants us to be happy and enjoy our lives. A considerable part of this is called self-actualization. “Self-actualization is the process of realizing and fulfilling one’s potential, leading to a more meaningful life. It involves personal growth, self-awareness, and the pursuit of authenticity, creativity, and purpose. Essentially, it refers to individuals striving to reach their highest potential and become the best version of themselves, achieving a state of fulfillment based on their talents and aspirations.” (Selva, 2017) Overcoming your limitations, making oneself better, and trying to become godly are certainly worthy goals. We know we will never be like Jesus, but we also know that trying is a worthy calling. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Selva, J. (2017, 5 5). What Is Self-Actualization? Meaning, Theory + Examples. Retrieved from PositivePsychology: https://positivepsychology.com/self-actualization/