Get Up: Leading After Failure a 5 - Day Plan by Joy OguntimeinSample

Sins, Mistakes, and Forgiveness

We all make mistakes—those little slip-ups that happen when we’re not paying attention, like a bad call or a simple oversight. But then there are moments that go deeper when we knowingly choose our own way over God’s. Take Peter, for instance. His denial of Jesus wasn’t just a mistake; it was a significant sin that impacted his journey. Yet, what made the difference for Peter was his repentance—a heartfelt return to God that opened the door to restoration and growth. Acknowledging our wrongs, whether they’re mistakes or sins, is the first step in moving forward. God’s love embraces us in both our failures and our faults, reminding us that our past doesn’t define us or hold us back from the incredible work He has planned for our lives.

I once made a costly decision that many might label a simple mistake. I invested heavily in a project that turned out to be a huge financial risk. While others saw it as a judgment error, I felt it was a sin because I clearly remember God whispering to me to take a different path—one I ignored. I forged ahead, and the weight of that choice became immense. I had to confront my disobedience, repent, and seek God’s forgiveness. I learned that repentance wasn’t just feeling sorry. It was about turning back to God and asking Him to help me listen, trust, and follow His guidance better next time.

After denying Jesus three times, Peter didn’t bury his failure or pretend it didn’t happen. Instead, he faced the hard truth with humility and deep regret, weeping bitterly—not just out of guilt but from genuine repentance. His tears showed his sorrow for turning away from Jesus, and this act wasn’t about self-pity; it was about recognizing how far he had fallen and choosing to turn back to God.

In John 21:15-19, after Peter’s denial, Jesus met him by the sea and asked, “Do you love me?” three times. Each affirmation from Peter brought a reaffirmation from Jesus that Peter’s purpose remained: “Feed my sheep.” This wasn’t just a conversation; it was a moment of redemption. Jesus was restoring Peter, showing that his failure didn’t define him—his future in Christ did. Peter became the leader of the early church—the “rock” Jesus promised he would be (Matthew 16:18). Jesus removed the weight of guilt from Peter's shoulders, restoring him fully in front of the disciples and calling him back to his purpose. With a heart renewed by God’s grace and empowered by the Holy Spirit, Peter was ready to shepherd with compassion and strength.

Like Peter, we must acknowledge where we’ve gone wrong and turn back to God in repentance. It’s not about dwelling in guilt; it’s about embracing His grace and moving forward with renewed purpose. We may have denied Jesus through our choices, selfishness, or pride, but He actively seeks us out and forgives us, just as He did with Peter. No matter your sin, God is ready and willing to forgive you for everything. Remember, failure is not final; it is not fatal. God stands ready to extend His grace and give you another chance. Embrace this opportunity to rise anew, knowing that His love and forgiveness empower us to step boldly into the purpose He has planned for us.

Discussion Questions:

• What is the difference between a mistake and a sin in your leadership journey? How can you respond to both with grace and repentance?
• How does Peter’s story of failure and restoration encourage you in moments when you feel you’ve fallen short?
• Are there past failures or sins that you haven’t fully surrendered to God? What steps can you take today to repent, let go of guilt, and embrace God’s forgiveness?