Still Trying to Get an A

Many with good intentions strive to obtain perfection in their jobs, church, sports, family relationships, and even their physical appearance. The list is vast. There is a constant race to meet the acceptable requirements of others—whether personal or from society. This pursuit brings stress, strain, discomfort, and overwhelming pressure.

“You can do better!”

Subconsciously, these four words replayed in my mind for years. At the time, they were meant to encourage me to strive for my best, but instead, they pushed me toward a mindset of perfectionism—an exhausting pursuit of always trying to get an A.

Don’t get me wrong. Doing things with a spirit of excellence is a healthy mindset—until it’s not. When doing well turns into torture, anxiety, and stress, one has crossed into an unhealthy place. They miss what is truly valuable.

In Luke 10:38-42 (NLT), we find two sisters, Mary and Martha, hosting Jesus in their home:

“As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”

But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Mary got it, but Martha missed it.

Martha, like so many of us, was caught up in the pressure of performance. She wanted everything to be perfect for Jesus. In her striving, she became frustrated, burdened, and even resentful toward her sister. But Mary chose a different approach—she simply sat at the feet of Jesus, listening and learning.

Jesus’ words to Martha reveal a powerful truth: our worth is not measured by how much we do, but by our relationship with Him. The “A” we so desperately seek—whether in work, appearance, or approval—is often a distraction from what truly matters.

Are you still trying to get an “A” in life? Striving for perfection will leave you weary, but resting in Jesus brings peace. Excellence is good, but when it leads to stress, anxiety, and self-imposed pressure, it’s time to pause. Let’s be like Mary and choose what truly matters.

Here’s a simple Prayer:

Lord, help me to release the pressure of striving for perfection and instead rest in Your presence. Teach me to seek You first, knowing that my worth is found in You alone. Amen.

Be blessed,

Dee Davis