Bouncing Back From FailureSample

Come Back To God First. 

One of the most valuable things about scripture is how it paints a clear picture of the nature of God. It doesn’t matter what we’ve done or how far we’ve gone, He’s always with us and He’s always welcoming us back. It’s illustrated so vividly in the story of the prodigal son. He decided to go back to his father after the biggest failure, thinking he isn’t worthy to be called a son, but “while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” (Luke 15:20). We don’t even make it all the way back before the Father comes running toward us!

If you continue reading the story of the prodigal son, you’ll see another character – his older brother – is not as welcoming. He is disgruntled over the fact that his father would be so celebratory when his younger son had acted so disrespectfully. He doesn’t think his younger brother deserves forgiveness, or at least not a party. The same is often true in our own stories. There are people we’ve hurt or who witnessed the damage of our actions and they’re definitely not ready to throw a party when we go to them to ask for forgiveness. The amazing news is that we actually don’t have to go to them first. We get to go to God first, the Father who runs toward us with love and forgiveness before we even say a word.

Receiving the love and forgiveness of the Father is the best and first way to bounce back from failure. Not only is it the warmest welcome, but as 2 Peter 1:3 reminds us, God’s “divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life.” He not only equips us with what we need in order to do what He has called us to, but He gives us what we need in order to face those who are against us. Come back to God first, and you’ll be able to continue forward as you remain in Him.

What’s kept you from bouncing back from failure? Is it someone you’re afraid won’t accept your return? Start by turning to the Father. He’s running toward you with everything you need. Receive it!