Overcoming Failure: How God Turns Our Worst Moments Into New Beginnings

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

None of us likes to fail and we sure like covering up our failures so that no-one else knows about them. Somehow our whole effectiveness as people is measured by our successes and yet the reality of life is that some of our biggest lessons are learned not by our successes but in fact by our failures.

I read a statement once that said, 'It is easy to forgive others' mistakes, but it takes more grit and gumption to forgive them for having witnessed your own.' We don't like anyone seeing our failures, and yet what a wonderful thing it is and deepening a friendship becomes when you have been involved in each other's failures as well as successes.

My best friends have stood with me through the tough times of failure as well as success — in fact, it's their constancy and faithfulness through the years that has made them my best friends. There's a certain vulnerability and exposure that we feel when someone witnesses our failures. It's easy to forgive others for their mistakes. It's more difficult to forgive our own mistakes. And it is still even more difficult to let others see our mistakes! Yet transparency at this level is what makes for meaningful and deep relationships.

Remarkably, God sees our failures and still loves and accepts us. This deepens the relationship, making God the ultimate and best friend. In embracing our flaws, we find acceptance, fostering a connection that transcends mere success and failure.

Reflection/Action:
Make a list of some of your greatest failures! How did friends help you through these times? What lessons have you learnt about how you can better help others through difficulties they face? Are there any people God is challenging toward right now that you could reach out to encourage? Start praying for them and then put 'legs' on your prayer! Be guided by Holy Spirit as to what you can do!