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When It Feels Like You Let God Down (again), This Will Help

When It Feels Like You Let God Down (again), This Will Help

Why is it that when we seem to need God most, someone else shows up instead?

Steven Pawley
May 06, 2025

On A Personal Note

Our faith needs to be a little more realistic – at least mine does. What do I mean?

When circumstances call for “Christ in me” to be visible “I” show up instead. It’s frustrating.

But it’s also part of an honest walk with Jesus. We get provoked and the wrong guy (me) shows up.

The Text Message

In one short chapter (Gen. 35) Jacob’s just had three burials and two funerals for significant things and people in his life. That’s enough to get anyone struggling in the moment. And God knows.

In v. 20 Jacob had just buried the “love of his life”. Maybe that had to go because in the next verse God calls him Israel. Jacob then Israel, flesh then spirit: For the believer, it’s one or the other.

Before we can walk after the spirit (our new nature in Christ) some old things must pass away. But then there’s v. 22. A family member does some stupid stuff! Why. More. Now. God?

What’s happening in your life right now that is more than reasonable and difficult to bear?

By v. 29 he’s not only dealing with being hurt and disrespected by his son, but he’ll also bury his dad (a crushing funeral) and run into someone from his past who triggers that old nature (Esau).

Life keeps happening, sometimes like sea billows roll! If you’re keeping score, it’s Jacob, then Israel, then Jacob again. Flesh two, spirit one. The flesh dies hard, ask Paul (Rom. 7:18-24).

We might keep score, but God doesn’t (Rom. 7:25-8:1). In our worst moments in Christ, we can also walk after the flesh. God isn’t surprised, He just tells it like it is. So, what do we do?

Don’t be so hard on yourself when life happens, and “you” show up instead of Christ in you.

No matter how hard we try, there’s a Jacob within. Be realistic with yourself and others. Walking out our new life in Christ isn’t easy. Truth is, it isn’t supposed to be. But Jesus is with us every step.

Let’s Take the Message Home

Be honest with yourself. What’s happening in your life right now that’s provoking the old “you”. Don’t make excuses for sin, just identify what’s stirred up and why you think that is.

Are you being realistic under the circumstances? God uses what’s going on in your life to heighten your sense of His availability. Maybe now is a good time to talk to Him in prayer.

Would you take a minute and let me know your thoughts. I Answer Every Email.

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