Much of the Christian life is about growing through failure. In order to become holy and Christlike one must wrestle with struggles that exist within and externally. By acknowledging these struggles, we are saying these actions or thought processes are sinful and not in line with the standards and expectations of God. Our desire is to strive for change that does not come easily. Then comes failure to change in the initial efforts. But there is value in this failure as it forces us to look to the Lord for the eventual success over the struggle with sin. It has been said before that we should not fear failure to the point of inaction. This is true as failure, suffering, and disappointments help you to raise your focus on leaning on Jesus. Once you make practical steps in the name of Jesus, victory over the flesh and the world is inevitable.
Suggested Passage:
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls." -1 Peter 1:3-9
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