Recently, someone volunteered to do a job for me. It was for something that I hadn't completely thought through and didn't have clear directions for them.
When they brought me the finished product, it wasn't quite what I had in mind, but I was very thankful for it. I thanked them, but they could tell it wasn't what I wanted. They kept apologizing over and over. I was thrilled they wanted to be helpful and it helped me figure out what I needed. But, they couldn't get over the fact that it wasn't perfect the first time. It kept them from trying again.
I think we do that with our Heavenly Father. He gives us gifts and ideas. When we step out and try to put them into action or being, we sometimes falter. I know I do! I imagine He is saying, "Great effort! I loved that you stepped out in faith!" But, we just hang our heads in shame because it wasn't perfect the first time. Or, maybe we have felt conviction and tried really hard to change old habits, then we go backward.
We need to repent, give it to Him and go forward. If this sounds familiar, forgive yourself, lift up your head and rejoice and keep going. Your Father in Heaven loves you and is cheering you on!