“The Rock”

I resonate so much with the story of Simon Peter. A man who ‘thought’ that he loved the Lord more than anyone and anything.

Simon Peter's story, especially his denial of Jesus, is indeed a powerful and poignant narrative found in the New Testament. It highlights themes of human weakness, fear, repentance, and ultimately redemption. Here are some key points that might resonate with you:

1. Human Weakness and Fear

Peter, despite his strong faith and dedication, succumbed to fear and denied knowing Jesus three times during Jesus' arrest and trial (Matthew 26:69-75, Mark 14:66-72, Luke 22:54-62, John 18:15-27). This shows that even the most devoted individuals can falter in moments of intense pressure.

2. Repentance

After realizing his denial, Peter was deeply remorseful. The Gospel of Luke mentions that Peter "wept bitterly" (Luke 22:62). This demonstrates the pain of betrayal and the depth of his regret.

3. Redemption and Restoration

Despite his denial, Peter was later restored by Jesus after His resurrection. In John 21:15-19, Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved Him, mirroring Peter's three denials, and tasked him with feeding His sheep, symbolizing Peter's restored role and mission.

4. Strength in Vulnerability

Peter's story shows that acknowledging one's failures and seeking forgiveness can lead to personal growth and a strengthened faith. It emphasizes that failure is not the end, but can be a step towards redemption and a deeper understanding of oneself and one's faith.

5. Leadership and Purpose

Despite his denial, Peter became a foundational leader in the early Christian church. His journey illustrates that past mistakes do not disqualify one from future purposes and responsibilities.

Peter's experience is a testament to the transformative power of forgiveness and the resilience of the human spirit. It encourages us to understand that failures and shortcomings are part of the spiritual journey and that redemption is always possible.

Jesus knows us for what we really are. In His presence we can’t fake it nor can we lie but our true nature is exposed.

Be not hasty to make promises to the Lord. Instead seek for strength and mercy that the Lord may lift you up in your weakness. “…humble yourself in the sight of the Lord and He will lift you up.”

Humility is of great importance. The lack of this is what made Satan to be cast out of heaven. Out of nowhere he felt important, great and wiser than the Creator. God didn’t waste no time with such foolishness and Satan was cast out of heaven. It is written, “… And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.”

The devil, Satan is at work. Where some goodness seems to be coming from, he will also camp there to create chaos. The Book of Revelation says: “…Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and of the sea! For the devil has come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.”

Simon, the rock, a good man in the sight of many, with good intentions never knew that he could fall. But Jesus knew… He knew what the devil would do to him, causing his ‘faithful’ disciple to deny Him.

Luke 22:31-32

31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:

32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

I was once like Simon. I felt better than others in certain ways. In my sight I knew I was a righteous man until Christ laid bare my sins in front of my eyes. I then realized just how much I denied the Lord. I realized how great of a sinner I was. 

Now, I see myself for whom I really am. 

But thanks to God who’s the sole Restorer; Wonderful Counselor, the Great Comforter, my Redeemer, Creator of heaven and earth, the Great Physician, my Provider, my Father and Friend…

The Lord has given me strength to overcome numerous difficulties and Has given me the will to endure countless challenges and now just as Simon Peter, I can encourage others because He has made it possible.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

If you desire to be right with God, if you are intentional with this, He will surely make a way. 

There is nothing as beautiful as knowing God and serving Him.

The belief that God provides a way for those who earnestly seek to be right with Him is a central tenet for us as Christians. 

This concept is often reinforced in various scriptures and spiritual writings, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, intention, and trust in God’s guidance. 

“…hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” 🙏🏽