On April 21, a comment was posted about having an "ah-ha" moment concerning Christ and a deeper realization of who He is. Perhaps I did have such a moment, but. . .
In spite of the few "ah-ha" moments I have, my Peterness continues to be an issue. Loud, proud Peter. Declaring Jesus is the "Son of the Living God" in Matt 16:16, then a short time later actually rebuking Christ concerning his (Jesus') own destiny (Matt. 16:21-23). In John 18, Peter is willing to fight for Jesus. Only to adamantly deny Jesus, not once but three times, a short while later.
I too suffer from Peter Syndrome. God is good, God is great to "why did I make such an unloving statement" all within a matter of a few hours. Telling someone I truly believe He will supply all that I need, yet losing sleep that same night because Standard and Poors may lower America's AAA rating.
In looking at the Garden scene, we find Peter's defense of Jesus came when Peter was in Jesus presence. Peter's denial of Jesus (Matthew 26:69-75) came when Peter was apart from Jesus and not even in the presence of other believers. Hmmm. . . One doesn't have to be a rocket surgeon to see the lesson here.
The closer we stay to Jesus, the less likely the we are to deny Him in our words or actions. Spiritual proximity to Christ is a necessity to living a daily, meaningful Christian life.
Excellent observation concerning staying close to Jesus so that our loyalty will not waver. Just what actions on your part are designed to accomplish that. (Come on now. Take this one seriously. Give me some specifics)
ReplyDeleteAnother aspect of the Peter syndrome is the fact that when the cost is low...not much chance of rejection or attack...Peter's loyalty was more intense. Demonstrated loyalty and devotion in times and places where it might not be accepted is the real test we face. (I am included in the group of Christians that seldom let themselves get into a situation where they might be threatened.)
Specific actions-
ReplyDelete1. Confessing to God that my Peterness is a sin.
2. Daily, specific prayers that address these issues.
3. Intentionality in overcoming these habits. Make a plan and stick to the plan.
4. Let someone know what it is I am working to overcome and have him/her hold me accountable.