Wellspring of Joy
Luke 22:31-32
Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.
~Jesus
Pondering Point
What a startling announcement to hear from Jesus if you are Simon Peter (or any of the disciples hearing that). And – despite Peter’s bold confidence and direct repudiation of Jesus’ claim, Peter would indeed whither under heavy temptation. He did fall. But he did not fall out of the Lord’s care.
The truth still stands that we cannot be taken out of Jesus’ hand (see John 10:29). Now keep in mind that Jesus did not say that we won’t face troubles, trials, and temptations. But they cannot separate us from Jesus or the love of God in Jesus. How we respond to our failures determines our ability to help our brothers after we repent.
Look back at verse 32: when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers. Don't let your failures keep you away from God or the church family due to shame or guilt.
Turn back to God (AND the church) and use those times of failure to encourage others who may also have fallen.
John 10:29
My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I am turning back to You. May I do so again and again. Thank You for praying for me like you did your first disciples. Thank You for sustaining me amid my failures. May I also show care to my brothers and sisters in the faith by strengthening them whenever they fall. In Your name I ask this. Amen.