Wes Huff: Dealing with Misspeak, Overspeak, Failure and Just Getting It Wrong

"Sometimes I think of the things I’ve said publicly where I misspeak, overspeak, and just plain get it wrong, and I really struggle with those moments replaying in my head. James 3:2 reminds me that everyone stumbles repeatedly, and this universal experience isn’t hidden or shameful, it’s acknowledged as part of our humanity. This isn’t an excuse for those times, but reassurance not to dwell in them. 

"I need to be continually reminded that my identity in light of my inadequacy rests on God’s response to my failures. God compassionates those who fear him, knowing our fragile nature and that we are dust (Ps 103:10–14). Rather than withdrawing, God demonstrates his love by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners (Rom 5:8). This means acceptance precedes our improvement. God knows how truly inadequate and incompetent I am, and yet still accepts me. Not because of my successes and failures but in spite of them. 

"We should strive to get things right, do things well, and show competence. But rather than demanding perfection, Christ understands our struggles and invites us to approach God’s throne confidently to receive mercy and grace in our time of need when we inevitably fall short (Heb 4:15–16).

"Recovery from failure receives particular emphasis. The righteous fall repeatedly but rise again (Prov 24:16), and though the righteous fall, they won’t be destroyed because God holds them by the hand (Ps 37:23–24). God’s mercies are new each morning, and his faithfulness is great (Lam 3:22–23); suggesting that each day offers fresh opportunity regardless of yesterday’s failures.

"I need the constant encouragement to forget what lies behind and press forward toward the goal (Phil 3:13–14), indicating that dwelling on past mistakes contradicts the gospel’s forward momentum. I have made many mistakes. Some more public than others. I will continue to do so, but my prayer is that God and those around me give me grace in such instances. Look towards Jesus — the only one who got and gets it right every time."

 

 

by Wesley "Wes" Huff (born 1991) who is a Canadian Christian apologist, theologian, and historian specializing in ancient biblical manuscripts. He serves as the Central Canada Director for Apologetics Canada, and is widely recognized for his participation in public dialogues, debates, and events dealing with faith and cultural engagement.