Many of us, at one time or another, have strayed from our faith, slipped up, or even walked away—some even denying that Jesus exists. We must understand that many great men of God have, for a season, walked away but ultimately returned. Their journey back to a loving God magnifies the greater glory of what He has done for us on the Cross.
“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31-32)
Luke 22:31 provides insight into Jesus’ relationship with Peter. The words of Jesus must have deeply affected Peter, who loved the Lord and was one of His most devoted disciples. Peter followed Jesus closely, hanging on to every word He spoke. However, similar to the story of Job (1:9-11), Satan requested permission from Jesus to sift Peter like wheat. Just as with Job, Satan has no authority over God’s children unless given permission. As men, we must understand that we should never give Satan authority over our lives by giving into sin. However, there are times when Satan may have permission to test us––but only if Jesus allows it. It’s important to note that during these moments, Jesus is praying for our faith to remain strong, just as He prayed for Peter. When we encounter challenges as men of God, it’s important to remember that Jesus intercedes for us from Heaven, ensuring our faith in Him does not waver––He knows that the outcome will be for our benefit and His glory.
Not only did Jesus pray for Peter, but He also told him that his faith would be stronger when he turned back (“But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:32). With this strengthened faith comes an important assignment: to encourage and strengthen his brothers and sisters in Christ. Just like Job, Satan had to ask for permission, which gives us insight into how Jesus provides protection over His children. When we face challenges, we should not lose hope in our Savior. When we emerge from those trials, we will be stronger and able to use our experiences to encourage others. Many of God’s greatest men and women have experienced times of great sifting. Our lives are often filled with the fear of sifting––yet nothing is wasted. Strong faith often only comes when we are faced with trusting the One who has control of the process and the outcome. Even Jesus asks His Father to take this cup from Him, yet ultimately submits with the profound words, “Thy will be done.”
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” ( Luke 22:42)
Like Peter, no man signs up for trials. However, knowing that we can trust in Him—who works all things together for our good and His glory—allows us to rest in the assurance that He is a ‘good, good Father.’ There are three types of men: those who fear being sifted, those who are being sifted, and those who rest in the confidence that, whether sifted or not, they can trust that God never leaves us and that His love will never fail.
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. (Psalms 36:7)
As men of God, we can rest knowing that God never loses control––He loves His children! We will fail, but He will never fail us! True faith is steadfast and unwavering. Whether we face great prosperity or significant loss, we can remember that He loved us enough to send His Son to die on the cross, ensuring that we can be with Him forever in Heaven. That is our ultimate reward!
Have a great rest of the week,
Stephen L. Thomas, RTM
