The Daily Word: Sunday, May 24th, 2020
2 Samuel 4:1-6:23
John 13:31-14:14
Psalm 119:17-32
Proverbs 15:31-32
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Commentary from Pastor Michael White:
Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I not follow You now? I will lay down my life for Your sake.” Jesus answered him, “Will you lay down your life for My sake? Most assuredly, I say to you, the rooster shall not crow till you have denied Me three times.” – Jn. 13:37-38
Peter wanted to believe he could follow Jesus, even to the death. So he boldly declared his strength out loud: “I will lay down my life for Your sake” (v. 39). Peter pledged to follow Jesus, no matter what!
But we all know what happened next. Jesus was arrested and put on trial. Peter had three separate opportunities to preach Jesus at the risk of losing his own life; but in all three cases, he denied Jesus. “I do not know the Man!” Peter swore (Matt. 26:72).
Peter was overconfident in his own abilities! And His overconfidence led to failure and denial of Jesus. It is better to underestimate our abilities and ask God for help, than to overestimate our abilities and assume we can do it on our own. How might Peter’s testimony have changed if he had repented and admitted his weakness to Jesus, instead of proudly declaring his strength?
Prayer:
Father, I admit that I am weak! I know that when I admit my weakness, You show Yourself strong in me. Help me to lean on you for strength and support all the time, in Jesus’ name!
Archives
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© Michael D. White, 2020. All rights reserved.