Failure.

Monday, January 24, 2011
Failure. I’ve become sort of a pro at failing. I’m 27 years old, and during my time on earth the truth is I’ve probably spent more time dealing with failure than any other single thing. I’ve failed in almost every area at some point along the journey – goals, relationships, finances, leadership, ministry, soul winning, education, commitment…need I go on? Honestly, folks – I’ve made a ton of mistakes – and failed a whole lot in my short life thus far. It’s actually pretty fantastic.
Some of you are already beginning to think that I’m on a pitty party this morning after reading this blog thus far. Well, in that assumption you would have failed, because I could not be any farther from that today. The reason I’ve called attention to my past failures (though not specifically…that’s none of your bees wax for sure…ha) is actually pretty glorious: God wants me anyway!
Oh, believe me: the fact that God wants me is not shocking to anyone more than me. Yes, He does – He wants me! He chose me – failures and all! And the more I read His Word, the more I find that my failures – my inabilities to accomplish things – my weaknesses – they all, believe it or not, aim the spotlight back to Him!
I’ve met a lot of folks in my ministry that seemed to believe that when God got them He really got an asset. They think they are something to behold – a real catch for God’s family. They list things like their talents, abilities, winsome personalities, charisma…oh, the list goes on and on. And in their mind, honestly, it seems like they are really convinced that they are truly exceptional. But then I run across Scripture that says, “Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord and He will exalt you…” God’s Word says things like it’s by the “foolishness of preaching” that God chooses to bring folks to Himself. He says things that shake us to the core like, “In your weakness, I AM strong…”
When God got me He didn't get an asset - He got a liability! God didn’t choose me because of what I CAN do. On the contrary – He chose me because of what I CAN’T do! And why on earth would He do that? Oh, it’s actually quite simple. You see, when things in my life or ministry actually work out – when great things are done, and folks begin to think I’m exceptional in some way, I can step back, point my finger to the sky, and say without a doubt in my heart or mind, “It was God.” And I can say that for one, simple reason: I know, based upon past experience, I’m not capable of it on my own.
And to be 100%, totally honest and transparent with you this morning – I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve battled pride before, and it doesn’t end in a very pretty way. Proverbs says the destination of pride is destruction, and I don’t know anyone that sits down with their life plan in front of them with that as the ultimate destination.
So today – admit your failures to Him. Live honestly, and realize you aren’t perfect, and are truly nowhere near it. Accept that you often fail. And let that smile stick upon your face knowing that God wants you that way. He wants to use your inabilities and weaknesses to glorify Himself. When you are weak – He’s strongest.

Tomorrow's Blog: Failure Part 2: License to sin?

That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

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