But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.— 1 John 1:9
A ministers’ association and a sales convention were both holding events in the same hotel. The catering department was working furiously to serve dinners to both large groups. The salesmen were supposed to have spiked watermelon for dessert – but it was mistakenly served to the ministers.
The chef was horrified when he discovered the mistake. He told the waiters, “Quick! Bring it back!” But it was too late. The ministers had made short work of the liquor-infused treat.
“Well,” shouted the exasperated chef, “did they at least like it?”
“I’m not sure,” replied the waiter, “but they’re putting the seeds in their pockets.”
Mistakes happen. Everybody messes up from time to time. But you can’t allow your mishaps to define you. In fact, God can often take your mistakes and do something wonderful with them.
So, if you fall short, take comfort in the fact that you’re not alone. No one is perfect. Allow yourself grace. Apologize if necessary. But always remember that God doesn’t expect perfection from you. He gives you grace upon grace – and can turn your mistakes into miracles!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to remind you of the grace you’ve received from Him – to help you give yourself grace for your mistakes.
Questions for thought
Think of a mistake you made recently. Did you feel like you let yourself down? Someone else? God?
How can a right understanding of God’s grace toward you encourage you when you make mistakes?