Key Thought

Most of us would define Peter's denials of the Lord as failure. In Jesus' worst moments, Peter was denying he had any connection with the Lord even though a short time before his denials, he had been adamant that he would never turn away from the Lord. We must learn two very important lessons. First, our failures don't have to be the defining characteristic of our walk with Jesus. Peter was weak and stumbled, but because of his deep repentance, the Lord's help, and the power of the Holy Spirit, he was used mightily by the Lord. We must never relegate anyone, not even ourselves, to the junk heap for letting the Lord down at one time or another. He is gracious and compassionate and will forgive our sin when we genuinely repent. Second, the Lord can use our failures to make us equipped to better serve others in his family.

Today's Prayer

Today's Verses in Context

"Satan (the devil) has asked to test you men like a farmer tests his wheat. O Simon, Simon (Peter), I have prayed that you will not lose your faith! Help your brothers be stronger when you come back to me." But Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, I am ready to go to jail with you. I will even die with you!" But Jesus said, "Peter, before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will say you don't know me. You will say this three times!" Then Jesus said to the apostles, "I sent you {to tell people about God}. I sent you without money, a bag, or shoes. But did you need anything?" The apostles said, "No." Jesus said to them, "But now if you have money or a bag, carry that with you. If you don't have a sword, sell your coat and buy one. The Scripture says: 'People said he was a criminal.' This Scripture must happen. It was written about me, and it is happening now." The followers said, "Look, Lord, here are two swords!" Jesus said to them, "That's enough!"

— Luke 22:31-38 (ERV)

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