As much as I wish my testimony could be defeat followed by salvation followed by complete victory, it is not. My testimony actually goes something like this:
Salvation, confusion, misery, defeat, success, more defeat, unmitigated failure, then victory! (repeat)
In essence, my testimony is that there is life after failure—abundant, effective, Spirit-filled life—for those who are willing to repent hard and work hard. Wholeness will only come when we give ourselves wholly to God and let Him fill every empty place in our lives.
Moore, Beth. Breaking Free Day by Day: A Year of Walking in Liberty. Nashville: B&H, 2007