“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” 33 But he replied, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” 34 Jesus answered, “I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me.” Luke 22.31-34
As I began this blog already… anyone can make mistakes. Kind of like Hannah Montana’s song! But if God used Peter even while he was going to sin, God can use us. That does not mean we should willingly sin. No, we must strive to reject sin. Is it easy? I think not. Is it rewarding? Absolutely.
Peter did not realize the gravity of his sin or the extent to which he would fall. He rejected Jesus as the Christ at His greatest time of need, and it was recorded for all the world to see for eternity (imagine if your sin were put in the world’s most-read book!). And when Jesus warned him about it, Peter said, “I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” But not so much. Three denials before the rooster crowed.
Satan wants us all to reject Christ. If we do that, he wins. But he is a trickster and a conniver. In verse 31 Jesus said, “Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat.” Even Satan had to ask Jesus for permission to act! Yet the Lord gives strength to the weak and provides us the ability to stand up under temptation so we might walk in the way that leads to holiness and truth.
The reality is we are all sinners in need of salvation. His grace is sufficient. Turn to God. Trust in Him. Allow Him to fill you with His power and love so you might be all that He has called and entrusted you to be. By His grace and for His glory.
“Come now, Lord Jesus. I praise You. Thank You for loving me. I trust You, Lord. Fill me by the power of Your Holy Spirit. For You are good and Your love endures forever.” Amen.