Failing

I fail miserably.  Time after time, I do the wrong thing.  Often, I act without examining what God would have me do.  Sometimes, I get that internal nudge and ignore it.  I fail the higher calling and I fail my family, friends and neighbors.  I feel very lacking in authenticity as a follower for Christ because of my failures.

Lamentations 3:22-24 (NIV)

²² Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.

²³ They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
²⁴ I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him.”

And, even when I get up and don't know how to move forward or what precisely is expected of me, I can wait.  I can wait for the right God opportunity to heal the wounds of my afflictions in God's timing, when hearts are properly softened.

Ezekiel 36:26 (NIV)

²⁶ I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

I'm sorry that my lack of obedience and my fear of confrontation leads me to lost opportunities and broken relationships.  But, God will work it to good despite my failure.  Again my favorite verse:

Romans 8:28 (NIV)

²⁸ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

God will work it for good.  

Lastly, Paul addresses Timothy regarding the wrong motives of peoples hearts. We must flee from foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction and pursue God's calling.

1 Timothy 6:11-12 (NIV)

¹¹ But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. ¹² Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

So, I trudge on, despite my failures, to serve Him well, were He gives me opportunities.  And, hope to proceed in obedience to Godly callings.  Then, I ask for His help for me to accomplish His work with a joyful heart.

Lord, I ask you today, to soften our hearts and help us to proceed in love.  Help us not to be lovers of  carnal things; but, lovers of You first and then the people that You put in our lives.  Help me to act in obedience when You command me to do Your will.  Please pour out your love and compassion on those who hate and soften their hearts.  Thank you for your forgiveness and love.  Amen