September 20, 2013

And I pray for you...



“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”  Luke 22:31-32

Jesus, in His last days on earth, uttered these words to his dear friend and disciple, Peter.  He knew Satan’s desire to pull down all that exalted God.  He knew that Peter would deny being acquainted with Him.  He knew the pain and regret that would haunt one He loved so dearly.  Yet He knew the authority that rested with His Father in Heaven, and this knowledge brought with it confidence in all that would transpire.  Jesus did not intervene; rather, He prayed and left the result with the Father.

This is one verse worthy of our attention.  Our Lord and Savior, as He always did, led by example.  Although He had the power to move heaven and earth, He chose to allow events to transpire as the Fathered willed.  Not only this, but he lifted up Peter, His dear friend, in prayer so that he would not lose His way. 

My friends, do you see yourself in these verses?  Do you have enough faith in the Father's plan to allow Satan to sift those whom you love?  Can you rest in the Father’s will?
Let us, each one of us, understand that our Heavenly Father’s will is perfect and rest knowing that nothing happens that He does not allow.