“[This is] an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation … in the last time.”
1 Peter 1:4-5
In the midst of daily cares and chores, we often forget that we are called to resist Satan, the enemy of our souls. He is a crafty adversary, preying on our weaknesses by tempting us to doubt or even deny our Lord.
Peter learned this firsthand. Though he was the first disciple to recognize that Jesus was the promised Messiah, he was also the first to reject the idea of Jesus being crucified. Jesus rebuked Peter sharply, saying, “Get behind me, Satan!” For the enemy’s voice was behind Peter’s words.
If Satan couldn’t use Peter to turn Jesus from the cross, at least he could try to destroy Peter’s faith. Thus, in the dark hours after Jesus’ arrest, Peter was caught off guard by a servant girl’s question: “You are not one of this man’s disciples, are you?” Peter replied forcefully, “I am not.”
Two more denials followed, just as Jesus had said. Peter fell before the tempter and saw his weakness nearly undo him.
Years later Peter used this hard lesson to encourage his readers. Though they too are weak, their ascended Lord keeps them strong.
Peter learned this firsthand. Though he was the first disciple to recognize that Jesus was the promised Messiah, he was also the first to reject the idea of Jesus being crucified. Jesus rebuked Peter sharply, saying, “Get behind me, Satan!” For the enemy’s voice was behind Peter’s words.
If Satan couldn’t use Peter to turn Jesus from the cross, at least he could try to destroy Peter’s faith. Thus, in the dark hours after Jesus’ arrest, Peter was caught off guard by a servant girl’s question: “You are not one of this man’s disciples, are you?” Peter replied forcefully, “I am not.”
Two more denials followed, just as Jesus had said. Peter fell before the tempter and saw his weakness nearly undo him.
Years later Peter used this hard lesson to encourage his readers. Though they too are weak, their ascended Lord keeps them strong.
Scripture Focus
John 18:15-27
Insight
“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.” (Luke 22:31-32)
Bible In A Year
- Judges 12-13
- Psalm 115
- 1 Corinthians 7
