What does the Bible say about failure?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that failure is real because all people sin and fall short of God’s glory, yet it is not the final word for those who turn to him in faith. Proverbs 24:16 shows that the righteous may fall repeatedly but rise again by God’s grace. First John 1:9 and Proverbs 28:13 call believers to confess and forsake sin, trusting God’s faithful forgiveness. In Christ, failure can produce perseverance, character, and hope, as Romans 5:3-5 teaches. God’s strength is especially displayed in weakness, according to 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, and those united to Christ are new creations. Our confidence rests not in self-sufficiency but in God’s mercy and sustaining power.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
- Proverbs 24:16
For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises up again; But the wicked are overthrown by calamity.
- Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.
- Psalms 73:26
My flesh and my heart fails, But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
[9] He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me. [10] Therefore I take pleasure in weaknesses, in injuries, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then am I strong.
- Romans 5:3-5
[3] Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering works perseverance; [4] and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope: [5] and hope doesn't disappoint us, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new.
- Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says Yahweh, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you hope in your latter end.
- Proverbs 28:13
He who conceals his sins doesn't prosper, But whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
- Romans 3:23
for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God;
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