Failure

A family bible study by Keith M. Craddock

Failure is a universal human experience. We all fail at some point in our lives, and it can be a painful and discouraging experience. But what does the Bible say about failure?

The Righteous Fall Seven Times

In Proverbs 24:16, we read:

"For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again."

This verse reminds us that even the righteous, those who are living according to God's ways, will experience failure. But the key is that they get back up again. They don't let failure define them.

God's Mercy and Compassion

In Psalm 78:38-39, we read:

"Yet he was merciful; he forgave their iniquities and did not destroy them. Time after time he restrained his anger and did not stir up his full wrath. He remembered that they were but flesh, a passing breeze that does not return."

This psalm reminds us that God is merciful and compassionate, even when we fail. He remembers that we are human and prone to weakness.

Satan's Schemes and God's Redemption

In Luke 22:31-32, we read:

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."

This passage reminds us that Satan wants to destroy us, but God wants to redeem us. Even when we fail, God is working to restore us and use us for His purposes.

Failure and Restoration

In John 21:3-4, we read:

"Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 'I'm going out to fish,' Simon Peter told them, and they said, 'We'll go with you.' So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing."

This passage reminds us that even after a significant failure, like Peter's denial of Jesus, we can still experience restoration. Peter and the other disciples went back to fishing, but Jesus met them on the beach and gave them a new commission.

Feed My Sheep

In John 21:17, we read:

"Jesus said, 'Feed my sheep.'"

This verse reminds us that even after we fail, God can still use us for His purposes. Peter, who had failed so spectacularly, was given a new commission to feed Jesus' sheep.

Conclusion

Failure is not the end. It's a stepping stone to success. God is merciful and compassionate, and He wants to redeem us, even when we fail. Let us remember that failure is not defining, and that God can use us for His purposes, even after we fail.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas of your life where you've experienced failure?
How has God redeemed you in those areas?
What does it mean to you to be restored by God?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and compassion. Help us to see failure as a stepping stone to success, and to trust in Your redemption. Give us wisdom and guidance as we navigate the ups and downs of life. In Jesus' name, Amen