When given the opportunity to stand for Christ Peter denied Him. Despite the fact that he insisted he wouldn’t, scripture records Peter denying the Savior three times (Matt. 26:31-35, 69-75). Peter denied the Son of God whom he had witnessed on numerous occasions do amazing and incredible things. Peter observed Jesus turn water into wine, heal the sick and raise the dead. He witnessed Jesus walk on water and miraculously did the same. Peter was a part of Jesus’ inner circle, who walked closely with Him, but when given the chance to admit that he knew Christ and was one of His disciples, Peter emphatically denied he knew Him (Matt. 27:69-75). Thus, rejecting their relationship.
Oftentimes, I reflect on how badly I’ve messed up. I think about how I, like Peter, have boldly declared, “Lord, You can count of me. I’ll do what You say. I’ll go where You want me to go.” But time and time again, I have eaten those words. On numerous occasions, I fall short. I mess up pretty badly, really missing the mark. I mess up as a mother, as a wife, as a friend, and as a minister who God has called to preach His Word. I mess up! Like many of us, I struggle, at times, fighting hard to be obedient to God and to do His will. To be honest, it seems like the more I try, the harder I end up falling. Some days, my strongholds get the best of me. Of course, I want to do what’s right, to please God and to make Him proud. Nevertheless, countless moments, I end up doing the very opposite (Rom. 7:14-25). Have you been there? Are you there right now?
“It happens so regularly that it’s predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge. I’ve tried everything and nothing helps. I’m at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn’t that the real question? The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different.” (Roman 7:21-25, MSG)
Sisters, I’m so grateful for our Savior, who is our Advocate and who has given us victory! Victory over our strongholds! Victory over our mess ups! Victory over sin! Not only do I thank God for Jesus, but I thank Him for the Holy Spirit, who is our Helper and Comforter. In our worse days, when we’re in the pit of despair, buried in our wretchedness, Jesus saves! Furthermore, the sweet Holy Spirit gently reminds us of who we are in Christ and what Christ did for us. He reminds us that we are more than conquerors, covered by God’s grace. He reaffirms to us that we are dearly loves.
In spite of our faults, though too many to count, we are children of God, a holy nation, set a part to do wonderful works for God. Yes, wonderful works! Now, isn’t that awesome?!
Now if by grace, then it is not by works; otherwise grace ceases to be grace. (Rom. 11:6, HCSB)
Although you and I fall short daily, thank God for His grace! Thank God that He still wants to use us in His kingdom and for His glory. He picks us up, cleans us off, and restores us. God can take our greatest mistake and use it as a stepping stone to raise us up to do great things for Him!!
During your Quiet Time, find comfort and encouragement in the scriptures. Read about individuals who messed up pretty badly, men and women who missed the mark, but found grace from God.
It’s Monday, already! How will God use you today?
Let’s walk in freedom together! Your sis Rhovonda
TAKE THE 30-DAY FREEDOM JOURNEY CHALLENGE OR THE 8-DAY THANKFUL CHALLENGE.