Art of Falling - by Sheldon Bass

“If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1st John 1:9 KJV)

I’d never realized that falling down could be considered an art form. Perhaps one could tip over and land gracefully, or they might crash like a klutz. But that’s not what the witty mentor was referring to. It’s what is done after a spill that determines whether one will grow stronger, or simply incur an embarrassing boo-boo.

Spiritually, I’ve fallen many times. Sometimes on my backside and at others, my face. However, it wasn’t until understanding the opportunity a blunder, a sin, and even a backside slide could present, that I came to know the benefits of humbly rising to stand on my faith again. And learning from those mistakes.

Consider the danger zones which led to disobedience to God. And how to avoid a recurrence. I repent and ask forgiveness. But have I accepted God’s forgiveness? Growth is arrested until I do.

Am I allowing Satan to beat me up over something the Lord has already put into the sea of no remembrance? The old analogy of getting back up the horse once we’ve been thrown means never giving up—continuing on regardless of the pain. I need to confess it and move on. And not be bound by the chains of shame and guilt. These, Jesus bore for me on the cross along with my sin.

The art of falling gracefully is allowing the Lord to use my fall to teach me, and to strengthen my defenses against sin. We fall down—we get up.

Thank you Lord, for your immense patience, and for forgiving and embracing us when we fall. We sing of your loving discipline.

Contact Sheldon Bass, Minister, Indiana