Text: John 13:33, 36-38
I pray you had a Merry Christmas celebrating Jesus Christ's birth!
In our text yesterday, we saw Peter boldly proclaim he was willing to follow Jesus no matter where He went, even if it cost him his life. Jesus told Peter the time would come when he would follow (in martyrdom), but now was not the time. Only Jesus' death was necessary for our salvation. Jesus predicted that not only would Peter not follow Jesus that evening, but he would deny knowing Jesus.
I pray you had a Merry Christmas celebrating Jesus Christ's birth!
In our text yesterday, we saw Peter boldly proclaim he was willing to follow Jesus no matter where He went, even if it cost him his life. Jesus told Peter the time would come when he would follow (in martyrdom), but now was not the time. Only Jesus' death was necessary for our salvation. Jesus predicted that not only would Peter not follow Jesus that evening, but he would deny knowing Jesus.
- What do you think prompted Peter’s denials? What did he fear?
- What did Peter have to lose in being identified with Jesus?
- How and when are you tempted to avoid being identified with Jesus or his cause? What is it you fear? What is it you would lose?
God had a higher goal for Peter. Luke tells us in Luke 22:32, "but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers."
Just like Peter, God is allowing you to struggle for a purpose. James states it clearly, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4). He has ministry ahead for you, and He is preparing you to be a more effective ambassador for Him.
God doesn't lie. And He promises in Romans 8:28 that everything will work out for our good. Sin and failure will be part of your journey. Keep your focus on Jesus and continue going to war against sin every day.
Just like Peter, God is allowing you to struggle for a purpose. James states it clearly, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4). He has ministry ahead for you, and He is preparing you to be a more effective ambassador for Him.
God doesn't lie. And He promises in Romans 8:28 that everything will work out for our good. Sin and failure will be part of your journey. Keep your focus on Jesus and continue going to war against sin every day.
Here is a Kindle book for only $0.99 that will encourage you and help you fight sin with the strength of the Holy Spirit.
