“Who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.”  —Romans 8:34

One of the greatest things about God’s grace is His ability to turn a mess into a miracle. 

I’m not saying that God endorses failures or that He accepts sin. He doesn’t. But God can take our failures and use them for good. Consider Peter, to whom Jesus said, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat; but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers” (Luke 22:31-32).

In that statement, Jesus Christ foretold Peter’s failure. Yet even though the words came from Christ Himself, Peter still thought he had everything under control. “But he said to Him, ‘Lord, with You I am ready to go both to prison and to death!’” (verse 33).

Peter didn’t accept the prediction. He didn’t own up to his own frailty. But Jesus was right, and Peter failed. 

Peter created a mess, and God allowed it in order to better equip him for ministry. Jesus had hinted of this process: “Once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”

Some of our messes, mistakes, and sins come about simply because of our own flaws or rebellion. God allows other failures to happen because He knows that when you come back, you will be better prepared for ministry—your perspective will be purer, and your commitment will be stronger. At times God allows Satan to trip you up in order to teach you something about yourself and about Him.

So when we repent, God turns the bad into something useful. That doesn’t excuse our bad behavior or remove its consequences. It just means that God is bigger than our failure. 

God didn’t turn His back on Peter because of his sin. In fact, He did just the opposite—God pursued him. He made sure Peter knew He still cared. 

The angel at the empty tomb specifically said, “But go, tell His disciples and Peter…” (Mark 16:7). Don’t forget Peter, the angel said. I know he’s blown it. I know he’s dropped the ball. And that’s why I’m singling out his name—God wants him to know He still cares.

Despite your failures and sins, God calls your name too. Listen, and you will hear Him. He still has a blessing to give you and a purpose for you to fulfill.

Gain confidence and hope for the spiritual battles you face with Prayers for Victory in Spiritual Warfare.