READING: 2 Samuel 3-5, Luke 22:24-46
There is so much in Jesus’ brief conversation with Simon Peter that it’s almost too much to consider. Jesus called him by name twice to catch his attention, and he gave him this behind-the-scenes information about spiritual warfare: “Simon, Simon, look out. Satan has asked to sift you like wheat” (Luke 22:31). Jesus told him that the enemy had asked permission to sift all the disciples—and surely Simon hoped that Jesus had told him “no”! What the text tells us, though, is that Jesus had prayed for him: “But I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail”(Luke 22:32).
Think about that picture. Jesus had granted the enemy permission to attack Peter, but He also prayed for him at the same time. See, the same Jesus who gives the enemy access to us also prays us through the conflict. He who ever makes intercession for us (Heb 7:25) prays for us when we’re living in victory and when we’re under attack. And, in the midst of a battle, who else do you want praying for you than Jesus, the Son of God? You can rest assured that He always prays for the Father’s perfect will in our lives.
Peter would struggle in his coming battle, but his defeat would not be the end of the story. His grief over his denial of Jesus would be a first step toward his return, when he would indeed strengthen his brothers. His life would be an answer to the prayers of his Savior.
PRAYER: “Lord Jesus, thank You for praying for me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Samuel 6-8, Luke 22:47-71