Lessons Learned from Failures

Thinking back on my life (even the last 24 hours) I can easily recall many times when I’ve messed up, failed, or fallen flat on my face. At the time, the pain and humiliation may seem overwhelming. But once I am able to step back from the situation, I realize what I could have done differently. Had I set a timer, I would not have burnt the bread. Had I looked up, I would not have run into that pole. Had I spent time in God’s Word, I would have been able to hold my tongue.

Since I tend to have Peter’s personality, it is encouraging to see what he learned from the mistakes he made. During Jesus time here on earth, Peter seemed to be constantly putting his foot in his mouth — speaking at inappropriate times, letting pride take over, and eventually letting Satan persuade him to deny he ever knew Christ.

But Peter’s life does not end in failure. After thinking of the mistakes Peter made, I Peter 5:5-11 means a little more to me.

… you younger men must accept the authority of the elders.

And all of you, serve each other in humility, for “God opposes the proud but favors the humble.” So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God for he cares for you.

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.

In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. All power to him forever! Amen. (1 Pet 5:5-11)

I love understanding the relationship between passages and the author. It’s as if Peter is saying, “If I can tell you a few things to keep you from messing up like I did, here they are. I wasn’t as strong as I thought I was. I wish I could have learned these lessons an easier way, but now I am able to pass them on to you!”