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Dealing with disappointment (3)
'But we have this treasure in jars of clay.' 2 Corinthians 4:7
Finally there's the biggie: Disappointment in ourselves. This kind of disappointment can throw you into a downward spiral that's hard to stop or recover from; so watch out!
Peter had sworn undying love to Jesus. 'Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will' (Matthew 26:33-75), and he meant every word of it. But under the pressures surrounding the crucifixion he crumbles and three times denies knowing Jesus. Heartbroken by his own dismal failure, '...went outside and wept bitterly' (Luke 22:62 NIV).
Have you ever asked, 'God, how can you possibly use someone as messed up as me?' Welcome to Peter's world. Peter became overwhelmed by feelings of failure and went on a major downer. But Jesus wasn't shocked. He was well aware that Peter was a work-in-progress. He knew that this impulsive, outspoken disciple had a tender heart, so He extended extra grace to him.
After his resurrection He took time out to restore the failed disciple. For Peter the years after his biggest failure were more spectacular than he could've ever imagined.
So, when (not if!) you fail:
a) don't drown in disappointment
b) come to Jesus honestly and say sorry. Confess your sin; don't make excuses, or blame circumstances or people
c) receive God's grace by faith, not by feelings. You are never beyond grace d) get whatever help you need to get back on track; sooner, not later.
written by Bob Gass
