The
woman said to Peter, “You are not also one of this man’s disciples, are you?” He
said, “I am not.” John 18.17
Jesus had said
that Peter would deny Him three times (John 13.38). Peter has now spoken forth
the first of these denials. Does he realise he has done this? Seemingly not, even
though he has been forewarned that he would do so.
When this man,
who was clearly alerted to this danger, fails, what hope do I have to live in love
and good witness to Jesus, and in obedience to the Father’s will? Of course, I
need to be ever vigilant and alert. Can I learn from Peter’s experience? I
wonder! I can certainly remind myself how easy it is to forget what has been
said to me. Sadly, I can also forget or, worse still, overlook the reality of
Jesus with me at all times. This is His word. I receive it as indisputable, and
I can seek to know Him with me at all times.
Allied to
this, of course, is the Holy Spirit. As Jesus is with me, His Spirit hovers to
lead me, to teach me, to embrace and protect me. Maybe Peter missed out on the
Holy Spirit nudging him as he slipped into denial. I can ask the Holy Spirit
for that protection and guidance that is there for me and which will lead me
through, in any situation, at any time.
There will be
times when I fail Jesus. I pray that such times will be minimal, as I turn to God
and seek the counsel and leading of His Holy Spirit.
Great God and Loving Father,
As I read of Peter’s denial, I see how easy it can be
to falter in the walk with You. I press in, Lord, and I ask You to receive my
declaration of love and my desire to remain steadfast to You. I ask for Your
Holy Spirit presence and protection. I ask You to lead me and guide me always
in ways that are pleasing to You. I seek Your constant company in the journey.
I thank You. Hallelujah! Praise Your Name. Amen.
My book “God Talk” is available through major
Internet booksellers.
A taste of the book's content can be seen in
the You Tube clip
(Search: Peter Francis - "God Talk").
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