Hosted by Ellen Krause
Overcoming Perfectionism with Scripture
Perfectionism can feel holy—but it’s keeping you trapped. In this episode, Ellen sits down with guest Bethany Broderick to talk about the hidden struggle of perfectionism in the Christian life. Together, they open up about their battles with inner critics, shame cycles, and the pressure to “get it all right.”
But there’s good news: God never asked us to be perfect—He invites us to be free. 💛
Join us as we explore how Scripture breaks the chains of performance and offers us something better: grace, surrender, and real identity in Christ.
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Bethany Broderick shares her personal journey of overcoming perfectionism, beginning with a performance-based faith and leading to a deeper experience of God’s grace. She explains how her marriage exposed hidden struggles and started a path of spiritual transformation.
Topics Discussed in This Episode
Overcoming Perfectionism in Your Spiritual Life [3:12]
Perfectionism will distort your view of God’s love. Bethany discusses how the need to earn God’s approval actually keeps you from him, and what it will take to change.
Vulnerability in a Culture Obsessed with Achievement [6:08]
Bethany explains how breaking her silence helped others find freedom too. As she began speaking about her struggle, she realized that perfectionism thrives in isolation—and that vulnerability invites healing in Christian community.
She goes on to explore how modern culture fuels perfectionism, even for Christians. She explains how societal values like productivity and self-reliance feed the lie that we must earn God’s favor—and what it looks like to live from grace instead.
Trusting God Instead of Striving for Control [11:55]
Bethany addresses the fear that letting go of perfectionism will lead to complacency. She reminds us that holiness is not self-powered effort, but Spirit-led transformation—and that resting in Christ is not the same as spiritual laziness.
Overcoming Perfectionism by Identifying Warning Signs [14:50]
To overcome perfectionism, we must recognize its emotional symptoms—anxiety, shame, and burnout. Bethany shares a simple practice for identifying the lies behind these emotions and replacing them with God’s truth.
There’s a difference between striving and surrender. Whether we’re stuck in legalism or spiritual apathy, both take our eyes off Christ. Community plays a key role in helping us walk in grace without giving up on growth.
What It Really Means to Rest in Christ Daily [19:47]
Resting in Christ is essential to overcome perfectionism. Bethany describes practical, everyday moments of spiritual connection—like short prayers or Scripture reflections—that keep her grounded in God’s love throughout the day.
Practical Tools to Overcome Perfectionism and Renew Your Mind [22:13]
Bethany shares Scripture-based habits that help her resist perfectionist thinking. From posting Bible verses around the house to filling her mind with truth, she shows how to daily anchor your identity in Christ, not performance.
Freedom starts with honesty. Bethany encourages listeners to name the lies, bring them into the light, and invite trusted friends into the journey. Overcoming perfectionism begins when we stop hiding and start receiving grace.
Resources [34:45]
About Bethany:
Website | Instagram
Bethany’s Favorite Bible Study Supplies:
ESV Illuminated Bible | ESV Scripture Journals | Blue Letter Bible
Scriptures mentioned:
- 1 Peter 1:16
- Hebrews 10
- Colossians 1:16-17
- Philippians 2:13
