“Condemn me not because of mine imperfection, neither my father, because of his imperfection, neither them who have written before him; but rather give thanks unto God that he hath made manifest unto you our imperfections, that ye may learn to be more wise than we have been.” (Mormon 9:31)
Today’s passage speaks about humility and an earnest plea for understanding as Mormon acknowledges his own limitations and those of the record he has written. He asks that his readers avoid harsh judgment for human frailties and, instead, recognise God’s merciful intent in revealing those weaknesses. Mormon implores us to give thanks to God for allowing us to see these imperfections, as they become a tool for our wisdom and growth. This sentiment invites us to consider that human imperfection, though often a source of discouragement, can be part of Heavenly Father’s divine tutoring, helping us learn patience, empathy, and humility.
In the Bible, Paul speaks of a similar principle when he declares, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23). Here, Paul acknowledges the unavoidable human limitations, a reality God uses to direct us towards Him. Further, in 2 Corinthians 12:9, the Lord tells Paul, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” This verse reveals that the Lord’s strength compensates for human weakness, and His grace allows us to find peace in our imperfections while striving to grow. Like Mormon, Paul recognises that acknowledging weaknesses opens the door to spiritual insight, leading to a humble dependence on God’s grace.
In my own life, I have found this principle to be significantly true. Years ago, I experienced a time when I felt deeply inadequate in my abilities and in my understanding of certain aspects of the Gospel. I struggled to see how God could use someone as imperfect as myself to do anything meaningful. Yet, with the urging of the Holy Spirit, I continued to press forward in faith, I found that my shortcomings allowed me to develop greater humility, patience, and a reliance on Heavenly Father. That period of struggle taught me valuable lessons that I could not have learned through my own strength or ability. I began to see that God could transform my weaknesses into strengths, and I began to recognise His hand in guiding my steps. Looking back, I am grateful for that season of growth and the wisdom it brought.
Our Lord reminds us that He does not expect us to be flawless; rather, He desires that we approach Him with a humble heart, willing to learn and grow. Today’s verse encourages us to show gratitude for our weaknesses because they are the very things that God uses to shape and refine us. By accepting our imperfections and striving to grow wiser, we honour the Lord’s work in our lives and allow Him to lead us. In practical terms, we can apply this message by responding to our own and others’ imperfections with compassion rather than judgement. We might also seek to learn from our mistakes and see them as stepping stones towards greater understanding and faith. Through God’s grace, we can become “more wise” than before, allowing His power to make up for what we lack.
