Several years ago, I endured a day I wish I could forget.

This particular day began like any other: I rolled out of bed, hopped in my car and completed my hour-long commute to work.  And then everything fell apart.

As soon as I settled into my office chair, I noticed a packet of paper covered in red ink. A note read, “Why is this editing job not complete?” Weeks earlier, I had promised to edit a 40-page document—but I had completely forgotten about the assignment. I immediately sank into my chair.

Shortly thereafter, I logged into my personal email account, only to find an urgent unread message. The subject line read: Notice – rent past due. I sank into my chair even further.

Then, after returning from work, I parallel parked my car, only to hear a rush of air flowing from one of my rear tires. I had tapped the curb in such a way that it punctured a hole in my tire. I sank into the seat of my car, hopelessly wondering when my day would finally end.

Am I even remotely competent? I remember thinking. I failed to handle my work responsibilities, I failed to manage my financial responsibilities and I failed to park my car. I felt like a complete and utter failure.

Have you been here before?

Maybe you recently lost your job and can’t help but question your skills and experience. Maybe you unnecessarily scolded your children and can’t help but doubt your parenting abilities. Maybe, while working toward your college degree, you missed a key assignment, and can’t help but doubt your success as a student.

When you feel like nothing more than a disappointment, I encourage you to meditate on the peace and assurance found in Scripture. These five Bible verses will get you started:

1. Ephesians 3:12 (GNTD)
   In union with Christ and through our faith in him we have the boldness to go into God's presence with all confidence.
2. Hebrews 4:16 (GNTD)
   Let us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.
3. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (GNTD)
   May the Lord himself, who is our source of peace, give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all. 
4. Hebrews 10:35-36 (GNTD)
   Do not lose your courage, then, because it brings with it a great reward. You need to be patient, in order to do the will of God and receive what he promises.
5. Psalm 13:5 (GNTD)
   I rely on your constant love; I will be glad, because you will rescue me.