"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you Simon, that your Faith may not fail. and when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
Luke 22:31-32.
It was encouraging and comforting to read the above verse this morning.
It is true that, as Jesus predicted, Peter failed and denied Jesus because he relied in his own strength to stand firm in the faith. When he repented, he was not only restored [Luke 22:54-62; John 21:15-19]; he became a great leader and an apostle. He became a bold and daring witness for Jesus. [ Acts Acts 2:41]
I thought that the Lord was reminding me, that the enemy is out to destroy our faith. The things that are happening around us today, are attacks of Satan; The new theories introduced in movies, media, books and talks are aimed to rob the faith that Christians have in Jesus as the Lord and Saviour of the world.
We are also being sifted like wheat. The chaff, which has no grain in it , will be blown away, when the sifting takes place. Jesus has already prayed for us too, that our faith should not fail. So we need not allow ourselves to be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine or be blown away altogether. That confidence is enough to defeat the enemy.
I thought of the Christians who are going through religious persecutions in some parts of the world. Like Jesus, we are to pray for them to have strength. They are brothers and sisters.
Maybe some of us have failed. Be encouraged. Our loving God is waiting to restore anyone who repents. He will strengthen and enable us to strengthen others. What a great God we have!
I thanked God for the revelation, that Jesus prayed for us and is still interceding for each one of us.
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3 comments:
Greetings. I was feeling low this morning. Then, I read your posting, and I was reminded that we cannot rely on our own strength, because one day we will be up, another down. It's Jesus who intercedes for us and gives us the strength we need whatever our weaknesses. As you point out, Jesus' statement to Peter shows that God knows in advance when we will stumble, but we have nothing to fear because He himself provides the solution beforehand.
Anonymous C
Strength and power is in that prayer. Jesus I ask, like you did for Peter, say a prayer for me and all who believe and trust in you.
Glory be to God! I am also going through a period of trial. When we go through these periods, It hurts badly, but when I think upon Jesus and the cross, I know that he never leaves me. He is here with us all, praying and interceding on our behalf to his heavenly father. He loves us very much. To all of those who are hurting, Be of good cheer. God is with us and the victory is yours. The Holy spirit within will give you peace and comfort. Jesus said when I leave, I will send the comforter. Give thanks to God at all times, no matter what you may be going through. This is a test and a trial because God loves us enough to allow trials and tribulations to occur for a season, but that is for our betterment. Our trials and tribulations brings us closer to God and really gives us the opportunity to really know him and what he can do for you. Thanks to God !
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