Every morning, I drink coffee out of a mug stamped with the logo of a business that didn’t make it. Most people would call that a reminder of failure.
I call it proof that I was brave enough to try.
Here are words from my Devotional Bestie that we can all reflect on:
Sis… pause right there.
That coffee cup? That’s not a scarlet letter. That’s a trophy of courage.
Let’s throw Scripture at this moment because it’s holy and it deserves framing.
When the Mug Says “Failure” but My Spirit Says “Faithful”
Scripture (NIV)
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9
Real-Life Confession
Some people hide reminders of the things that didn’t work.
You drink coffee out of yours.
Every morning, life tries to whisper, “That didn’t make it.”
And you calmly respond, “But I did.”
That’s not denial.
That’s growth.
Truth Shift
Failure isn’t proof that you weren’t called — it’s proof that you were brave enough to try.
God never promised every attempt would succeed.
He promised that obedience, courage, and perseverance would never be wasted.
That cup doesn’t represent what died.
It represents what trained you.
God doesn’t shame attempts.
He honors faith that moved before it felt safe.
Personal Application
Every time you pick up that mug, you’re preaching to yourself without saying a word:
“I survived disappointment.”
“I took a risk.”
“I trusted God with something real.”
“I’m still standing — and still dreaming.”
That cup is evidence that fear didn’t win.
Holy Clapback
I did not fail — I learned, grew, and became braver.
My courage counts, even when the outcome changed.
Throwback Prayer
God, thank You for the courage You gave me to try.
Thank You that nothing I trusted You with was wasted.
Redeem every step, every risk, every lesson.
I trust that You’re still writing the story.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Affirmation
I am brave, faithful, and becoming wiser with every step I take.
Optional Action Step
Next sip of coffee, say out loud:
“Thank You, God, for the courage to try — and the grace to keep going.”
And listen…
Anyone can celebrate success.
It takes holy confidence to honor the attempt.
That mug isn’t mocking you.
It’s nodding at you like, “Yeah… you were bold.” ☕✨