All of us have personality flaws and character weaknesses. We see sinful tendencies in ourselves such as selfishness, irritability, impatience, vindictiveness. Yet if our defects cause us to rely more heavily on Jesus, we can see them as blessings in disguise. As we acknowledge our weakness and seek God's help, we experience His grace and strength.

This link between imperfection and improvement is all around us in nature. Take, for instance, the formation of crystals, which make up valuable minerals and precious stones. Each kind of mineral and gem has its own special shape and appearance. In addition, every one of them is made up of a great number of atoms that are stacked in perfect alignment. Occasionally, though, one of these basic particles gets out of line. Surprisingly, these "flaws" or imperfections give gems their most beautiful properties.

How do you respond to your faults and shortcomings? Don't let them get you down. Instead, be honest about them and commit them to the Lord.

The psalmist said, "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me" (138:8). Trust Him to turn your inner flaws into beautiful character.  — Mart De Haan