Lessons From Those Who Failed In Excellence Series

LESSONS FROM THOSE WHO FAILED IN EXCELLENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 10:6-12

Key Verse: “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” (1 Corinthians 10:12, NIV)

Supporting Texts: Romans 15:4; Proverbs 16:18; Galatians 6:7-8; Hebrews 3:12-13

INTRODUCTION:

The Bible is a mirror that reflects both the victories and failures of men. While we rejoice in the stories of those who served God faithfully, we are equally warned by the lives of those who stumbled. Their mistakes are not for mockery but for instruction, so that we may avoid repeating them.

Excellence in serving God is not achieved by talent, position, or title, but by consistent obedience, humility, and faithfulness. The failures of biblical figures such as Saul, Samson, Moses, and Ananias with Sapphira demonstrate that even those who once carried great grace can fall short if they neglect discipline and obedience.

As believers, we must learn from their failures and allow their stories to shape our commitment to holiness, humility, and excellence in service. The lessons drawn from their lives are meant to sharpen our spiritual walk and preserve us from errors that can ruin our destinies.

1. DISOBEDIENCE LEADS TO REJECTION

One of the greatest lessons is that obedience is better than sacrifice, and disobedience can cost a person divine favour.

a) The Demand for Total Obedience (1 Samuel 15:22)

God desires complete obedience; anything less is unacceptable before Him.

b) Partial Obedience Equals Disobedience (1 Samuel 15:23)

Like Saul, when we obey selectively, we dishonour God’s authority.

c) Disobedience Brings Loss of Position (1 Samuel 15:26)

Saul lost his throne because he rejected God’s command.

d) God Values Obedience Over Appearances (John 14:15)

True love for God is shown by total submission to His Word.

Biblical Example: King Saul’s downfall shows that greatness without obedience cannot last, and rejection is the inevitable result of disobedience.

2. CARELESSNESS WITH CONSECRATION BRINGS DOWNFALL

Another lesson is that divine calling and anointing must be guarded with discipline and purity.

a) Sacred Vows Must Be Honoured (Judges 16:17-18)

Samson’s carelessness with his Nazarite vow led to the loss of his strength.

b) Compromise Opens the Door to Captivity (Judges 16:19-21)

Indulging in lust weakened Samson and delivered him into the enemy’s hands.

c) The Anointing Must Not Be Taken for Granted (Judges 16:20)

Assuming God’s presence will remain despite sin is dangerous.

d) Consecration Protects Destiny (Romans 12:1-2)

A life surrendered to God avoids the pitfalls of compromise.

Biblical Example: Samson’s downfall reveals that a mighty man can become a captive if he neglects consecration and discipline.

3. ANGER AND PRESUMPTION HINDER DESTINY

We also learn that lack of self-control and presumption in service can rob a believer of divine promises.

a) Anger Opens the Door to Sin (Numbers 20:10-11)

Moses struck the rock in anger, disobeying God’s instructions.

b) Presumption Misrepresents God (Numbers 20:12)

Moses’ rash action gave the people a wrong picture of God’s nature.

c) Lack of Self-Control Disqualifies Leaders (Proverbs 25:28)

Leaders must discipline themselves to reflect God’s glory.

d) Destiny Can Be Lost Through One Act (Deuteronomy 32:51-52)

Moses was denied entry into Canaan because of a single failure.

Biblical Example: Moses’ experience shows that even a great leader can lose blessings if anger and presumption are not dealt with.

4. HYPOCRISY AND DECEPTION INVITE JUDGEMENT

Another lesson is that God cannot be mocked, and He values sincerity in service over outward show.

a) God Requires Truth in the Inner Man (Psalm 51:6)

Pretence in service is an insult to the Holy Spirit.

b) Hypocrisy Corrupts Worship (Matthew 23:27-28)

Outward religiosity without sincerity is unacceptable before God.

c) Deception Against God is Self-Destructive (Acts 5:3-5)

Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit and lost their lives.

d) Sincerity Attracts God’s Approval (John 4:24)

True worshippers worship God in spirit and in truth.

Biblical Example: The death of Ananias and Sapphira proves that hypocrisy in service is dangerous, and God demands truth from His children.

CONCLUSION:

The stories of Saul, Samson, Moses, and Ananias with Sapphira serve as eternal reminders that failure in excellence has dire consequences. Disobedience, compromise, anger, presumption, and hypocrisy are stumbling blocks that can rob believers of their destinies.

We are therefore called to pursue obedience, consecration, self-control, and sincerity in our walk with God. By learning from their mistakes, we safeguard our destiny and ensure that our service to God is marked by excellence that brings Him glory.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, deliver me from the spirit of disobedience and rebellion.

2. Father, help me to guard my consecration and walk in purity.

3. Lord, give me grace to serve You with total obedience.

4. Father, help me to overcome anger and lack of self-control.

5. Lord, protect me from the spirit of hypocrisy and deception.