Scripture

Psalm 37:23-24 NRSV

Our steps are made firm by the Lord, when he delights in our way; though we stumble, we shall not fall headlong, for the Lord holds us by the hand.

Consider

No matter how much we love God and want to do what pleases him, we will at times act foolishly, make mistakes, and hurt other people. Although we want to act rightly, sometimes we say or do things so blatantly selfish, mean, or destructive that we shock even ourselves. “That’s not me,” we say. “I’m not really like that.”

Yes, we are really like that. And our Father loves us anyway, loves us through all the weaknesses and failures of character, loves us through our shame and remorse into the relief of confession and repentance. He delights in us but not because we are perfect. Like any loving parent, he guides and teaches us in the right way, and when we stumble, rather than shaming or disowning us, he helps us up and redirects our steps. We may say or do the wrong things, but our mistakes are not fatal because when God holds our hand, he never lets go.

Pray

Faithful One, you know I long to please you but often say or do things for wrong reasons, and I have hurt others. Forgive me, Father, and give me the humility I need to admit my mistakes and ask others for their forgiveness as well. Thank you for your promise to guard my steps and to hold my hand firmly as I choose daily to walk with you.

Reflect

1 Samuel 2:9; Psalm 147:11; Romans 7:14-25

Ponder

When have I stumbled in a relationship, and what did I need to recover and keep going?