Reading the Bible is an important part of how we can grow in our faith, but we know many people question why the Bible is not relevant for today. With its old language and confusing references, it can feel irrelevant or disconnected. But these Scripture meditations are meant to help us bridge that disconnect and encounter reasons why the Bible is relevant.

 

I Messed Up

It’s easy to get caught up in all of the things you’ve done wrong– replaying certain situations or conversations and wishing you’d responded differently. You promise yourself that you’ll do better. Be better. 

The Bible is filled with incredible examples of those who have gone before us in the faith. And, guess what? With one BIG exception (cough cough, Jesus), these ‘role models’ are all pretty imperfect people. 

When we trust in him, God uses us in spite of our failures and our weaknesses. In fact, as Paul teaches us, these can be the parts of ourselves that show us just how much we need him. And often, these are the parts of ourselves that show others they need him, too. So, next time you find yourself thinking, “I messed up,” take a minute to meditate on this scripture.

1 Timothy 1:14-16

14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.

Observations from the Text

• God has given us his grace (v. 14)
• We can trust his promises (v. 15)
• Jesus saves us from sin (v. 15)
• He is patient with us (v. 16)

Prayers of Response

Patient Savior, though I’m struggling to forgive myself about _________, help me feel your mercy in this moment.

Jesus, thank you for your love and grace as I go through ____________.

Prayer Requests

God, please help ______________ to know your love for them.

Father, free me of the idol of perfectionism as I wrestle with __________. Let me instead be transformed by the perfect love of your son.

Prayers of Readiness

Merciful Lord, I’m ready to repent for ____________, and I am thankful for your forgiveness.

Even though I’m struggling with _________, help me be a witness for your kingdom.

 

We believe simple Scripture meditations like this help us in our mission to creatively explore how we connect with God in the ordinary, extraordinary, everyday moments of life. For more Scripture meditations, visit this page!  

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™