Matthew 26:33,34
‘But Peter replied to Him, “Even if they all fall away because of You, I will never fall away!” Jesus said to him, “Truly I say to you that this very night, before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.”’
A couple verses prior Jesus predicts that all of them will fall away. That’s prompts Peter’s protestation. Jesus answers in greater detail how he will abandon Him. This brings up how wrong we can be. I would like to agree with Peter. However, after having walked with Christ as long as I have I know how wrong I can be.
A year and a half ago I had a work problem. I was certain it would be fixed in my favor. I was so wrong. My attempted repairs made it far worse.
What is to be our attitude? Jesus spells it out in the Beatitudes. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”, (Matthew 5:3). The blessing doesn’t come by being poor in spirit for we all are. It’s knowing that we are poor in spirit. This knowledge makes us fall upon Him seeking mercy and help. Peter couldn’t imagine betraying Jesus. It happened. I’ve made plenty of mistakes. To be of right mind means we know we are capable of bad things. That can be depressing. However, we know God is with us. He promises to keep us. 2 Timothy 1:12b says, “I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day.” I no longer fear or worry. I know He has me in the palm of His hand.
This knowledge changes all. I know He is walking with me, empowering me. Filling my heart with joy. I know I am capable of sin. However, the Holy Spirit gives me caution when I am getting close to danger. I know my faults and seek to avoid snares. I have been redeemed and walking with my Father.
Thank You for informing us of our weaknesses. Thank You even more for all the protection You give us. Thank You, Lord.
