All Over the Place

I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it." (Matthew 16:18)

Simon Peter was always putting his foot in his mouth. He was eager for the things of Jesus but often acted on impulse. On the Mount of Transfiguration, he blurted out words without thinking them through (Luke 9:32-33). When Jesus was washing his disciples' feet, Peter adamantly refused and then hastily begged Jesus that he wash all of him (John 13:8-9). That same night, he declared his absolute loyalty to Jesus and swore that he would die for Him, only to deny Jesus three times (see Matt.26:31-35, 69-75). He also cut off someone's ear (see John 18:10)

Peter was...all over the place. Jesus was not surprised by any of this. He knew the man he called to follow Him. He understood all of Peter's weaknesses. Still, He called him Peter saying that he would be the rock on which the church would be built. Despite being all over the place, Peter would be called steady and strong, because Jesus knew that it wasn't about who he was at the moment but about what he would become the more he walked alongside Him.

Sometimes you may feel all over the place. You may have seen the glory of Jesus displayed in your life and may be passionate to declare His name , only to find that you  mess up sometimes in big ways. But you don't have to be perfect to follow Jesus. Walk with Him and let His spirit fill you. He will work inside you to accomplish the purpose He has for you.

Questions to Ponder

• Does Jesus know you?

• Do you ever mess up?

• Are you walking beside Him?

In His Service,
Terry Phillips