Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

Week 3 Day 20

Mark 14:27-31

Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: ‘I will strike the Shepherd,
And the sheep will be scattered.’ “But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.” Peter said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble, yet I will not be.” Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that today, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” But he spoke more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” And they all said likewise.

Early in our walk as a Christian most of us realize we have a lot in common with Peter. He speaks without fully understanding what it is he is saying and makes rash promises or quite frankly, just talks to break the silence. Peter is a doer and jumps in head first. I believe most of us can identify with that. We have tasted the love of Christ and want to do something. Often, however, we forget to look at those around Peter. Yes, Peter made a rash boast. Yes, Peter followed his emotions. Without thinking through the implications of either. But read on! They all said likewise! They blindly follow Peter as he leads the way. No further thought or discussion, let’s just dive in, and we will figure it out on the way.

How often do you find yourself doing likewise? Having emotions take over and blindly following them. Or in the same vein, we are part of a group of people and instead of thinking things through we follow blindly along. Not stopping to even consider for a moment what the Word of God has to say on the subject? It comes down to being able to trust the Word of God and acting on that. Not what our mind or feelings would urge us to do.

Our major battles in life are spiritual in nature, and we must use spiritual weapons to wage the war. The arsenal of spiritual weapons we have been given is the Word of God! Yes, Peter forgot! Peter forgot he had the living Word of God next to him, giving him direction and counsel. But we often forget ourselves to check out the very same counsel… From the very same living Word of God. Let’s agree not to be like Peter on this one but rely on God’s direction and counsel from his Word!

Reflection
When was the last time you “went along with the crowd”? What caused that to happen? What could you do differently next time to make sure you are reacting in a way which would be honoring to God and his Word?

Things to do:
Spend time in God’s Word each morning and ask for wisdom for the events which will come up during the day which might cause you to follow the crowd instead of God’s living and perfect Word.

Prayer
Father, thank you for the passion you gave Peter and the passion you have given us as men who love You. LORD, give us the wisdom to line up that passion with your Word! Let us be found being obedient to not only the letter of the law but the spirit of the law as well. For our good and your glory. It’s in the wonderful name of Christ we ask. Amen