A few years ago I read the John Maxwell book Failing Forward. The basic premise of the book is that we are conditioned to avoid failure at all costs and this conditioning actually makes us less personally, professionally and spiritually.

How then, do I respond to failure? This weekend was a little rough around the edges as I experienced some personal conflict (again) and felt the pain of not delivering my best in a class I lead on Sunday.

Last night I heard the voice of Jeremiah as he expressed the hope that motivated him in a time of disappointment and failure surrounding him.

Lamentations 3:21-25
21 But this I call to mind,
and therefore I have hope:
22 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
23 they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 The LORD is my portion, says my soul,
therefore I will hope in him.
25 The LORD is good to those who wait for him,
to the soul who seeks him.

Will I continue to fail? Only if I continue to go forward. But there is Hope.