It's the process, not the goal
Great thought from Oswald Chambers on Mark 6:45-52. The story of Jesus walking on the lake in the midst of a storm has always challenged me. There are always storms and it's difficult to not set your eyes on just making it through. It feels impossible to not be afraid. That fear pushes us to strain against the oars. We do it again and again trying to control life.
Living a healthy spiritual life means our thoughts and purpose are focused on Christ. Chambers says, "It's the process, not the goal, which is glorifying to him." I have found this to be true many times, but somehow, I always turn to look at the storm again. Maybe the key is in recognizing as Chamber says that "God is training us to obey him in the present moment and to leave all other considerations alone."
We will fail again and again, but we should always call out to Jesus. Focus on the peace he brings and recognize he is training you and working in you through the process. Peace is always found in his presence, not in the circumstance.