Can I tell you one of my favorite things about the Bible? It’s how Jesus responds to people who have failed. I remember as a kid I was tempted to believe that his twelve disciples were some kind of superheroes. But now when I look at them, I realize they are all messy, imperfect people just like me. One of my favorites? Peter. Peter was impulsive, reckless, hot-headed, and often got distracted from trusting God. Even though he failed over and over, God wasn’t finished with him.
As Christians, the Bible reminds us that we have all failed. We have all messed up just like Peter did. But what if today you’re really struggling with a particular failure that you just can’t shake? Let’s look at an example of when Peter failed and the three truths Jesus shows us through it.
1. Jesus forgives. In Luke 22 we see the story of Peter disowning Jesus not once but three times. Peter walked and talked with Jesus and was in his inner circle. Jesus even warned him about the denial (Matthew 26:34), and yet when Jesus was being taken to trial and people accused Peter of knowing him, he adamantly said no each time. Then Jesus was crucified. I can’t even imagine the failure and shame Peter felt. But Jesus didn’t leave him to suffer in his failure. When Jesus appeared to Peter after his resurrection, Peter jumped out of the fishing boat he was in and swam to him. Jesus then lovingly gave him three opportunities to tell him he loved him, which gave Peter the opportunity to express his remorse over his sin.
What is the first thing you should do when you know you’ve failed? Turn from it. Tell God you’re sorry and ask him to give you strength not to repeat it. Depending on the failure, you might also need to apologize to other people and put boundaries in place to help you not do it again. Jesus forgives repentant hearts. Talk to him today.
2. Jesus reminds us of our mission. As Peter expressed his repentance and love for Jesus, Jesus reminded Peter that his failure was not going to keep him from the mission God had given him to teach and lead God’s people. Guess what, single mom. Your failures have not changed the truths about who you are in Christ. You may have some earthly consequences you have to deal with, but God still wants to use you to bring him glory. You are not finished just because you’ve failed!
3. Jesus tells us to move on. Despite Peter’s denial, his place in the Kingdom never changed. His purpose remained the same. Peter moved on. He went on to boldly preach the gospel to thousands, wrote two epistles, and was the primary source for Mark’s gospel. Jesus used Peter to build up the church and bring many people to himself. Have you asked for forgiveness and been reminded of your mission? Then it’s time to move on. Lift your head high knowing that you are forgiven and that he is with you every step you take. When you fail again as we all will, these truths will still be the same. So go live boldly, knowing that your failures do not define you.
