Falling is part of getting better

From The Pastor’s Pen – By Brian Horrobin

On this Fathers’ Day I am reminded of a story recounted by motivational speaker, Darren Hardy.

Many years ago, at the age of six, Hardy was with his family on a ski vacation in Tahoe.

At the end of the day an excited Hardy ran up to his dad and said: “Dad! Dad! I skied all day long and didn’t fall down one time!”

An unimpressed response from his dad came quickly: “Well, then, you didn’t get any better.”

A stunned Darren then listened as his father gave the rest of his lesson.

“Look, Darren, if you don’t push yourself PAST your current ability, then you can’t grow. You have to fall to improve. Falling is part of getting better.”

Hardy’s dad likely wouldn’t win most encouraging father of the year, but his advice was sound and it profoundly impacted the life of his young son from that day onward.

Did you catch what he said?

Falling is part of getting better.

Every person needs to realize that about their dad, and every dad needs to realize that about himself.

As a dad myself, I like the words of Micah 7:8 in the Old Testament: “Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light.”

I would encourage you today on this Fathers’ Day to show your dad honour and hey, cut him some slack where he has failed.

Forgive him for where he has done you wrong and ask the Lord to help you love him more.

If your dad is no longer living, say a prayer of thanks to your heavenly Father and move on.

Oh, and for all you dads out there, don’t focus on the falls you have made. Instead, set your sights on the lessons learned, pray for God’s hand of help, and then get out there and keep on “daddying”!

I hope you enjoy this special day!

- Advertisment -