Luke 22:31-33
31 "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed
for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back,
strengthen your brothers." 33 But he replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you
to prison and to death." 34 Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the
rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me."
Just like the conversation Satan had with God about Job, Satan had been
discussing Peter with God. He had asked permission to shake Peter's faith just
like shaking wheat to separate the wheat from the chaff. If all that remains is
the chaff, then it's worthless. But Peter in his bold arrogance as usual said
he was ready to go to prison and face death if necessary, even after Jesus had
told him that he prayed for him that his faith might not fail. What should have
made Peter cautious in his enthusiasm is that Jesus called him Simon, not once,
but twice instead of Peter. Then Jesus told him that he would deny him three
times.
For those of you who are parents, you probably understand what it is like to
speak up proudly about your son or daughter. Or there may have been times where
you have had to speak up on behalf of your children in their defense. Most of
the time your children never hear these conversations take place. They don't
realize what you have even done for them as a parent. We have a perfect Father
in heaven where there are conversations taking place about us, His children.
Satan has probably come before the Father and accused us and asked permission
to put us through tests of faith. Our heavenly Father knowing what is best at
times allows those tests of faith to strengthen us, to build our character, to
shape us and to mold us. We may not always be perfect at the task, but if our
faith remains with God then we have succeeded. Pray that when the time comes
for you test of faith that you will stand firm. Ask Christ to strengthen you
and be with you through every trial. Pray that you may be alert and watchful
for the schemes of Satan and that you may know the temptations when you see
them.
