Heroes Needed: Any Volunteers?

Scripture

Peter declared emphatically. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the others vowed the same.

~Mark 14:31, NLT

Quote

Let us all pause and take time to repent of our fears, asking God to show us how weak we are, and trusting Him to be our strength.

~Ewrin Lutzer

When the going gets tough, the fearful head in one direction and the faithful in another. That being said, we must never lose sight of our own weakness. C.H Spurgeon confessed his wretchedness and his weakness. John Newton did the same. Never trust a spiritual leader that doesn’t confess his utter weakness. We have a human problem; we volunteer rashly, in the strength of the flesh with the grandiose idea that we can be a hero. Peter distinguished himself, “They may deny You, but not I. I will never deny You.” I wonder if Jesus chuckled on the inside when Peter made that bold and daring statement. Jesus told Peter, “No, not only will you forsake Me, you will deny three times that you even know Me.” Of course Peter does not yet see his weakness and so he argues with the LORD that he will not let Him down. So Peter volunteered to stand with the LORD, he did stand through the first phase of the arrest and trial but later his courage melted like wax under a hot sun. Instead of being the hero of the group, Peter became the goat.

We must give credit where credit is due, and Peter redeemed himself is a way. It was Peter who preached boldly on the Day of Pentecost. It was Peter and John who boldly stood for Christ before the Sanhedrin. It was also Peter who died a martyr’s death in Rome. What was it that transformed Peter from being a cowardly disciple to being a courageous witness? One thing primarily–the GRACE of God, but in particular the prayer of Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit. We are all afraid to a certain extent but the grace of God, the intercession of Jesus and the Holy Spirit can make us bold. You will never believe Paul’s prayer request to the Ephesians… “I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So, pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for Him, as I should.” If Paul needed that prayer, how much more do we need it.

Extra

I am predicting rain today. Anyone with a weather ap on their phone can predict weather these days. December is flying by like a jet. Today will be study/visitation LORD willing.

I heard last night that Lincoln will get to come home for Christmas, PTL.

Have a great Hump Day.

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