Scripture:
Luke 22:31-34 ESV
[31] “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, [32] but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” [33] Peter said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” [34] Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day until you deny three times that you know me.”
Observation:
I honestly wonder how Peter felt herein those words from Jesus. His teacher, a man that he knew had spiritual insight. After 3 years of walking with HIM, seeing the things he saw, you might think that Peter would put his guard up. Sifting literally grinds into dust, anything that might be somewhat resistant. In order to turn wheat into flour, you have to grind in through a screen with intense pressure. This was the plan of Satan. But let’s look at the next verse. Jesus expresses that even though Satan would appear to have won… HE had prayed that Peter would return to HIM, and when he did that, his faith would be stronger. HE gave him a job having been tested by the enemy, and returning, he would know what it takes to overcome, and his brothers would need to know that information. Of course, Peter didn’t see things the same way in verse 33 he makes the statement in am ready. I will die with you or even be arrested. It doesn’t matter Jesus, I’m down for whatever. LET’S DO THIS. The next thing that Jesus says to Peter is telling him exactly how he will be sifted. In the face of death, you will deny me not just once but 3 times Peter.
Application:
I could go so many different ways here. Talking about the tests that life throws at us, or how having Jesus intercede for you is a vital part of how we overcome. But I think what I want us to be most aware of is that we will return, and when we do, our faith will be stronger. Let me give you an example from my life. I have been saved for more than 14 years now. But, I do not have 14 years clean. In fact, it’s a little less than half that. There was a time in my life when I was sifted. The enemy tested my faith, and I failed, falling back into addiction. I wanted HIM to just end my miserable life and, at times, ask HIM to and to tell the truth literally begged HIM to take my life. I had no idea HE did. It’s just not how I expected. HE strengthened my faith by bringing me back to HIM in a manner that I never expected. I now have a job, and that job is to show my brothers how to overcome. Saying you will die for HIM is one thing, but actually killing your flesh is another. It’s about action. We need to know that the enemy is coming, and yes, that matters. You will be tested. But let me speak this into your life… you will return… and when you do… show those whom HE gives you influence over how to overcome.
Prayer:
Father, we know that the testing of our faith is what makes it complete, and we trust you. We know that your son is sitting right now at your right hand, going to bat for us. Thank you. We pray today that as you bring us through the fire, you will be the 4th man standing with us. We can not do this without you. Thank you that we do not have to. It’s in the mighty name of Jesus we pray, amen.