My sweet friends,

Life is hard. That’s my lesson of the week. I’m sure you all knew that already though, but I felt like maybe we could all use a little reminder that we are works in progress, not perfect, but not failures either. God is making us new through his love and mercy. So here’s to you for not giving up and calling it quits, and to the Lord for extending his grace over our lives. Here’s my note to you:

To the ones who didn’t get into their program

You’re worth more than your degree. I promise. In fact you’re worth more than many sparrows (Matthew 10:31). I know that’s not what you expected, but it’s true. You’re worth more than the money you’ll make, the career you’ll obtain and the status you’ll collect. You’re precious and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). And beyond what I know, God has a plan for your life that may or may not include this program. All I know is that my life goes a lot smoother when I trust Him with it. So don’t sweat it. Shed some tears, eat some ice cream, hug your mama and then be okay because there’s always next year or a next opportunity. Just trust that the Creator of the Universe knows what He is doing.

To the ones who have been hurt by others

It’s not your fault. It’s really not. Those scars you carry. The weights on your back that are heavy with baggage from other’s choices, they aren’t meant for you. They are keeping you from a fuller life. One filled with forgiveness, with freedom and a purpose. So let me say I’m sorry for what’s been done to you. I’m sorry for the tears you've shed. I’m sorry for the memories that keep you up at night. I’m sorry that you feel like you’ve failed because of how someone hurt you. I’m sorry. But, I can’t heal you from that. I can only take your hand and lead you to the one who will tell you that you haven’t failed. To the Mighty Savior who wipes away tears (Isaiah 25:8) and comforts those who mourn and gives them oil of gladness (Isaiah 61:3). I’m not saying it won’t be hard, but what you’re feeling can’t be easy either. So come all you weary and burdened and He will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).

To the ones who have hurt others

Me too. I’ve been there. I’ve said some things I wish I hadn’t. I missed significant events because I was too absorbed in my own world. I’ve broken relationships that I wish I could have in tact. But at the end of the day, haven’t we all? Haven’t we all fallen short (Romans 3:23)? So relax a little. After you’ve realized your screwed up mistakes and apologized for them sincerely, then it’s time to move on and try not to do it again. Because, my friend, your sins have been paid for by the blood of Christ. Why are you trying to pay retribution for something that’s already been paid for (1 John 4:10)? You have the chance to be redeemed. So give it over to the only one who can do something with it. Give it to God and let. it. go.

To the one coming away from a failed relationship

Whether it never started or it fell apart with no explanation, that sucks. People can be the absolute worst. But we can too. We are all the same that way. So things fall apart. People say things they shouldn’t, people use and abuse, people don’t act on what they want and let it slip from their grasp. So my friend, keep that chin up. There’s no need to feel as if you’ve failed because you haven’t. You’ve learned a lesson and become better for it. The only thing we can count on to be consistent in this world of inconsistent relationships, is Christ. Now don’t go shunning people because of that. We were made to do this life together through family, friends, marriage, all of it (Galatians 6:2). So allow the Lord to pick up the broken pieces and keep moving forward.

To the one who feels like they took two steps forward and one step back

It’s part of the process. You haven’t failed you’ve only stumbled. The progress you have made isn’t gone. It’s there and it’s a reminder that you can keep making progress. This isn’t the end for you, in fact, you’re just beginning. So keep going. Fight the good fight and keep the faith (2 Timothy 4:7). Don’t let it get to you. Take a moment to mourn but remember you are covered by the Lord’s grace. He won’t let you stay stuck because that’s not how He does things. He’s in the business of empowering with His spirit and leading us closer to Him. So forget the step backward and focus on the steps forward.