An Imperfect Disciple

We know that Peter was about to deny his Lord three times, in spite of his earlier protestations to the contrary. Yet he did have the courage to follow his Lord, albeit at a distance. 

I know how easy it is to be a fair-weather friend of Jesus. I try to blend in when I’m with an unbelieving crowd, afraid to stand up for  the truth of the gospel. I don’t want to risk causing offence or feeling embarrassed. Yet when I have spoken up, it has usually been easier for me than I expected.

The Lord promises us words to say (Luke 21:15), and our spirits are strengthened whenever we speak up for our faith. It is heartening to know that Jesus knows our weaknesses and wants to love and restore us. Jesus foretold Peter’s denials but also assured him that he had work for Peter to do in the future. In the more than 50 years since I committed my life to Jesus, I have faltered and stumbled many times. But Jesus has been there to pick me up, just as he did with Peter in John 21:15–17. Even in our weakness, Jesus never gives up on us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, forgive our hesitation to show our love for you. Strengthen us so that others may know you through us. Amen