Do you know the difference between encouragement and criticism? It’s motive. I can say the same thing to you and mean two different things. For example .. “you need to read the Bible more.” Now I might be trying to criticize you because I think you are sorry Christian … and you should be ashamed of yourself. Or … I might be trying to remind you that the Word is the source of our relationship with the Father .. it is our strength, our comfort, the light to our path … Let me say .. the point of these devotions is to encourage you … don’t ever think otherwise. Now I am not saying that the Word will not pierce us now and again, as the Spirit reminds us of the Holiness of God and the weakness of our flesh. Ok, now to the devotion.
Do you love Me? —John 21:17
“Peter’s response to this piercing question is considerably different from the bold defiance he exhibited only a few days before when he declared, “Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” … When the Lord asks us this question, it is impossible to think and respond properly, because when the Lord speaks directly to us, the pain is too intense. It causes such a tremendous hurt that any part of our life which may be out of line with His will can feel the pain. There is never any mistaking the pain of the Lord’s Word by His children, but the moment that pain is felt is the very moment at which God reveals His truth to us.” CHAMBERS
Of course you know that Peter had denied ever knowing Jesus, three times. You know, we do that as well … maybe people don’t accuse us of being a Jesus follower where we deny it verbally, but we are more prone to a silent denial .. we laugh at jokes that put others down, we watch things that are contrary to the Word’s teaching and that do not honor God and look for excuses about why that was OK, we participate in activities that are clearly contrary to what we know in our heart is right, but it gains favor with the world.
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. (1 John 2:15-17)
Peter went on to lead the Church in Jerusalem .. and he stood boldly before the religious leaders (Acts 4) proclaiming the Gospel. In the case of John 21, Peter was confronted by the living Word, in our case we are confronted by the written Word and the Holy Spirit that is in us.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man (and woman) of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Take time to read your Bible today. And then shine for Jesus.
Bondye Beni Ou (God Bless You)
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