Failure has become a taboo word in our society. Teachers tell us to believe in ourselves. Motivational speakers pump us with slogans like “Where there is a will there is a way!” and “Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”

The apostle Peter is one of the most memorable characters in Scripture. He was enthusiastic, impetuous, and brave. His determination and strength distinguished him as someone who could be relied on to push through obstacles. These qualities fit the name Jesus had given him—the rock (see Matt. 16:18).

But the rock crumbled when placed under pressure. Peter had been so sure that, of all people, he would be strong enough to stand up for Jesus in any situation. At dinner when Jesus predicted that someone would betray Him, it hadn’t crossed Peter’s mind that it could be him (see John 13:21–24). He had protested against Jesus’ specific prophecy about himself; only hours later, he would fulfill that prophecy by vehemently denying that he knew Jesus. The rock turned out to behave like shifting sand.

Imagine Peter’s shame as he remembered that he had been debating rather than listening to Jesus’ warnings. All his images of greatness came crumbling down. And underneath the crashing rubble were Jesus’ sorrowful eyes watching his inexcusable betrayal and pathetic cowardice. Peter’s shame drove him into self-imposed isolation.

Thankfully, this was not the end of Peter’s story. He did not persist in his denial of his Savior. His shame also caused him to reconsider the basis of his former confidence. Jesus’ repeated reminders to watch and pray lest he fall finally began to make sense (v. 46). His own strength and determination had failed, but God did not fail (v. 32).

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The shame of failing to live up to expectations breaks down our self-confidence. But it also paves the way for us to humble ourselves in childlike faith, admitting to God that we can’t measure up—but He can. What pleases God more: your success or your faith? What is He asking you to do with the situations in which you most fear failure?

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