“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4).
Few things discourage us from serving the Lord more than moral or spiritual failure. We look back on past mistakes or recent struggles and wonder, Can God still use me? But Scripture is clear—failure isn’t final. Some of God’s most faithful servants experienced devastating failures, yet their lives remind us that God’s grace is greater. Their stories offer instruction, encouragement, and hope for our own failures.
Think about it. Moses dealt with insecurity and anger, leading to murder. Abraham lied out of fear. Sarah doubted God’s promise. Elijah ran and hid in despair. David tried to cover up adultery with murder. And Peter lost a battle with pride in his denial of Christ. Yet despite these failures, God still used each of them greatly—both before and after their lowest moments.
On one hand, it’s tempting to see these instances as justification for our own sinful moments, slipping into the mindset of I’m only human. But the sins of biblical heroes aren’t excuses for us to sin—they’re warnings. Their failures show us what not to do and reveal the thoughts and attitudes that led them there.
The Bible describes Elijah as, “a man with a nature like ours” (James 5:17). The same could be said of Moses, Abraham, David, and the rest. Their victories weren’t superhuman but supernatural! In other words, it wasn’t their strength but God’s power working through them. The same God who redeemed their failures offers us His grace today. We may have the same capacity for failure, but we also have access to the same resources for victory!
So, take heart, dear believer. Your failure isn’t final. Your worst moments don’t define you. What past mistake keeps creeping into your mind? Don’t let the enemy use it to sideline you from serving the Lord. If you’re a follower of Jesus, ask for forgiveness and do what He does—choose to forget it! (Hebrews 8:12; 10:17). As Isaiah reminds us, “For You have cast all my sins behind Your back” (38:17).If God put your failures behind Him, shouldn’t you?
