Denials and Failures

N.T.#434 "Denials and Failures"

Nov. 29, 2024 

Mark 14-Part 12 

LET IT GLOW 

Take a minute to sit and breathe deeply. Let us be still and know You are God. We are entering the most busy time of the year. Yet isn't it the most wonderful time of the year, as the song goes. Be careful to not let events to cause you to stumble in your relationship with Jesus, the Savior.

Where are you now in your journey of faith? If you are climbing over the ragged rocks of adversity, take His hand and let Jesus lead you through. In the midst of it all, it is His touch which comforts and guides. (Day by Day with Charles Swindoll)

Along unfamiliar paths I will guide them... I will not forsake them. (Isaiah 42:16) 

Look at our lesson today as we pick up at this verse:

All ye shall be offended because of Me this night. (verse 27)

Then Peter jumps in, outspoken and bold Peter, and boasts that he was incapable of forsaking Jesus. (verses 29-31)

Even though all may fall away, yet I will not. (verse 29)

Was Peter implying that he loved Jesus more than the other disciples? Peter's inevitable failure and denial of knowing Jesus was coming, that very night, within the hour. If God had intended to reject Peter for his weakness, He would have simply left him on his fishing boat more than 3 years earlier.

God wasn't caught by surprise that the disciples would fail His Son. He made provision for their shortcomings, knowing He would eventually develop them into apostles who would fearlessly preach the Gospel, perform miracles, and teach others. (Swindoll)

God has a plan for all of our lives. Are we joining Him in His kingdom work? Or are we living for our self, providing for our own? Ther is so much more work for us to do in sharing the Good News that Jesus loves us and wants a relationship with us. He wants to use us for His purposes. Are we willing to sacrifice all in order to accomplish it? Remember, He will not forsake us.

LET IT GROW 

Peter was notified of his upcoming failure. That night, before the rooster crowed 3 times, Peter would deny Christ Jesus. And it happened exactly the way the Master had said. Yet, the Risen Lord spoke with Peter on the seashore later. He didn't ask Peter for a confession of his sin, but a confession of his love. (John 21:15-17) Peter went on the preach the Gospel and thousands were saved.

We all fail Jesus, but He continues to forgive us, love us, and us in His kingdom work.

LET IT GO

Help us let go of all the baggage we carry, unforgiveness of others, our sin, judging others, materialism.

Please use us again, Lord, forgiving our trespasses.

We love You Lord Jesus.