READING: Matthew 26:35
All the disciples said they would die for Jesus, and they all still fled when He was arrested. I’m sure they meant their words of commitment, however. Nothing in the text suggests they were simply lying to Jesus. I doubt they were trying to convince themselves with their own words. Rather, as much as they could have done at the time, they were serious when they said they would die for Him.
Their commitment and confidence, though, didn’t keep them from running. You see, it’s easy to make that kind of commitment when the pressure’s not on—but it’s a different matter when the going gets tough. Even the most committed follower of Jesus today can fall tomorrow.
That means that we must daily, hour by hour, minute by minute, and second by second follow Jesus. Every step of the way must be marked by prayerful dependence – and every day of victory must be covered by prayers of gratitude. Strong disciples walk this way.
PRAYER: “God, I need You every hour . . . and every second. Help me never to walk in my own strength.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Leviticus 13:1-14:32, Matthew 27:57-28:20