Peter was passionate; he believed in Jesus. He would always follow Him. But Jesus knew, knew what was coming.
In Luke 22:31 Jesus told him that a trial was coming. Jesus also assured him that he had prayed for him, that “his faith would not fail.” (verse 32, HCSB).
Jesus also knew Peter would survive the trial. And when he did, Jesus had a job for him: “strengthen your brothers.”
Jesus knows the trials we face today. He knows their outcomes, even when we cannot imagine. And, He promises to use the trials for good in Romans 8:28. Even the unfathomable, the unimaginable, the incomprehensible.
Things like cancer. Pandemics. Unfair treatment. People not glorifying God.
He will redeem it all, some how, some way. We can’t understand it, but we don’t need to, He is God.
He’s got even this.
And when it’s all over? After we have grown closer to Him through the ordeal, He has a job for us to do: encourage others in their faith.
Testify for Him. In attitude, word, and deed.
What if we faced our trials with the end in mind? We may not fathom the outcome of current chaos, but we know, whatever, we will choose to draw near to God.
We will trust Him.
We will follow His laws.
We will wait on Him.
And when it’s over, praise God, we will praise, we will weep with joy, and we will encourage others to see Him.
Won’t you join me in prayer, asking His help in doing just that?
Prayer: Dear Lord, This life is not just about me. I tend to forget that. You know the plans you have for me, for all who interact with me. During difficult, uncertain, and even frightening times, please guide my attitude, author my words, and weave my actions into good. Help me trust You. Draw me closer to You. And Lord, when this is over, help me help others see you. Thank you that You have a job for me! In Jesus’ name, Amen.