Keep the Faith: When You Fail Devotional Guide
Monday: Read James 1:3-4. It seems a bit ridiculous for the writer of James to tell us to consider our trials and failures as “nothing but joy.” But James has the long view in mind. The text reminds us that with the right attitude and a reliance on the Holy Spirit our failures will ultimately make us stronger. Can you think of a time when God strengthened you through failure? If someone came to you upset by failure, what would you tell them?
Tuesday: Read Isaiah 40:31. This familiar verse reminds us that there is another way to look at failure. Sometimes failure is just waiting to succeed or preparing for success. Perhaps what we consider failures are simply lessons God wants us to learn before we can succeed. We can’t succeed until we learn these valuable lessons. If we will be patient and trust God’s wisdom and timetable, we will be victorious. What lessons have your past failures taught you?
Wednesday: Read Hebrews 12:1. The writer of Hebrews is reminding us of the importance of perseverance. Sometimes success is just persevering. If we rely on God’s strength and allow him to sustain us through difficulty we will succeed. Often times people fail because they are not willing to persevere. They choose to fail by throwing in the towel. Many of the success stories in the world are about people who just didn’t give up. “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” Perhaps that is a tired old adage but it is still very true. What is difficult in your life now? Could it be that God is asking you not to give up on it?
Thursday: Read Psalm 145:14. This is a comforting verse that tell us that we are not alone when we fail. God is with us and will give us the strength to overcome. Sometimes failure can teach us a very valuable lesson – to rely on God’s power, not our own. We don’t have to figure everything out or push through with our own strength. In fact, God is pleased when we take his hand and ask him for help. When was the last time you gave up control and ask God to help you?
Friday: Read Romans 3:23. Take comfort from the fact that everyone fails. To be human is to fail. We all mistakes. We all sin. Maybe it is time to cut yourself some slack and not be so hard on yourself. What’s more is that Jesus did not come for perfect people. He came for people who sin and need help. If your failure is a sin or mistake of some kind, received God’s forgiveness in Christ, reconcile with the person involved (if applicable) and then move forward. God doesn’t want you to beat yourself up. God loves you and wants to help you find joy and peace. What sin or failure do you need to let go of today?