How should we handle failure?

Failure is experienced by each of us.  How should we handle it?

1.      Gain courage from others.  History provides many examples of those who like the famous Louis Pasteur, “Rose triumphant from the ashes of his own mistakes.”  Remember the failures overcome by Abraham, David and Paul

2.      Remember your freedom in choosing your reaction to the uncontrolled circumstances that bring about failure.  Only the water inside a ship can sink it.  You are somebody!  You have been created in the image of God!

3.      Allow God the time to make a difference.  The presence of Jesus in our history is proof that the Creator cares for us.  He knows each of us by name.  Learn from the prophet Isaiah, “The burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground, springs of water.”

You DO have a choice!

“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life: you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me…your love, O Lord, endures forever…”

(David, Psalm 138).

David was well acquainted with frustrations, dangers and failures.  He emerged triumphant by recognizing that he had a choice: to turn to God or to surrender to bitterness.

You and I have the same choice.  We can turn to God asking for wisdom to learn from troubles or failures.  Then knowing that He will help us, we can grow even in the worst of times.

Confession:

I can easily say the preceding words…not easy for me

to do them…but if I do observe them,

I will find new strength.

With God in my life,

I AM NOT GOING TO LOSE.