Are You a Failure?

Have you ever attempted something in life and realized that you were a failure at it? Phillip Brooks has. He studied to be a teacher. He graduated from college but soon realized he was a failure at being a teacher. He was compelled to resign. He cried out, “I don’t know what will become of me,” and in desperation said, “and I don’t care either.”

Many times in life, we don’t have any idea of what we are supposed to do. I thought I was supposed to be a doctor and then did not get accepted to medical school. I became a chemist and worked for a large tire manufacturer. That was not my calling either. One day my pastor told me God wanted me to be a pastor. I applied to Duke Seminary late because I wanted to be able to say to my pastor, “I applied and didn’t get accepted.” But then I got accepted! My life turned around when I stopped trying to control it.

It makes no difference what you are called to do, as long as you do it well. Giving up and letting God take control is the biggest and best decision we can make. Sitting down with God and asking God to take control is the first step. Actually “letting” God have control is the second step. You’ll never be a failure when you listen to the will of God and follow in His ways!

Phillip Brooks decided to prepare for the ministry and became a distinguished clergyman. He wrote one of our most loved hymns – “O Little Town of Bethlehem”.

Joshua 24:23: “Incline your heart unto the Lord God of Israel.”

By the Rev. Tommy Herndon