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READ: Mark 14:12-25
LISTEN: Mark 14

“You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, “for it is written: ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” Mark 14:27-28

Jesus issues his disciples a devastating warning: “You will all fall away.” Yet, he follows this up with a heart-restoring promise: “I will go ahead of you.” Though his disciples would be unfaithful, Jesus would remain faithful. He would restore and refine his followers even though they would fail in one of the most catastrophic ways possible. Instead of deserting them, Jesus forgives, restores and makes them new.

We have all failed. However, failure does not have to be final: “Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again” (Proverbs 24:16). No matter the nature or severity of our failures, the story is not over. God can and will use the pieces and experiences of our lives to make something whole and beautiful. As a result, it is important to respond appropriately after failure. Admit wrongdoing to God and others. Ask for forgiveness. Thank God for his mercy and active work, and then commit to being faithful now.

TODAY: Failure is a part of all our stories. Is there a failure that weighs you down? Ask God for forgiveness, being assured, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Thank God for his mercy and renewing work. If, however, you feel stuck in failure, then reach out for help. Our care team would love to talk with you. You can email them at care@adabible.org.