Weekly Devotion

March 14 2021

And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon!  Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.  But I have prayed for you that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”  NKJV: Luke 22: 31-32
 
This passage comes right after Jesus met with His disciples in the upper room and instituted the Lord’s Supper.  Peter felt strong in his faith, and thought that he would be faithful to the Lord in any situation.  He had always taken pride in his abilities, and he believed he could accomplish much through his own strength and determination.  Jesus told him that Satan had asked permission to test his faith, and that Jesus had prayed for him to not lose faith, but to use his testing experience to strengthen others.  In the Old Testament, we have the example of Job being tested.  These times of testing may come even when we seek to be faithful and follow the Lord’s teaching, and with God’s permission.  God in His wisdom allows testing and suffering at times for purposes that are beyond our understanding.
 
Both Peter and Job had faith in the Lord, and prayed and served Him with reverence.  This did not keep them from having pain and sorrow.  Just as God has a purpose for allowing problems in our lives at times, he also is there to comfort us and carry us through.  And, He has a plan for our lives that we can achieve if we seek His will and follow His lead.  Even when we fail Him, He remains faithful.  Jesus is in heaven interceding for us now.  He loved us enough to give His life for us, and He still loves us and seeks the best, His best, for us.
 
Dear Lord, remind us that You are in control, and that You will be with us always.  Comfort us and carry us because You are our strength and shield; our comfort and our only hope.  In the name of Jesus we pray.  Amen.