Peter was proud. He had boasted, “Even if all fall away, I will not." But Jesus said "I tell you the truth, today — yes, tonight — before the cock crows twice you yourself will disown me three times." But Peter insisted emphatically, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the others said the same (Mark 14:29-31). He thought he could save Jesus. So he sat in the courtyard, still convinced that somehow he could change the course of history.
All he succeeded in doing was to prove Jesus right! A simple question, asking if Peter was a disciple of Jesus, showed that his bravery was very shallow. His answer was a lie, a downright lie. It was to be the first of Peter’s three denials, just as Jesus predicted.
Pride and lies often go together. We may like to think that we are bigger people than we are; and in thinking that, we are lying to ourselves, and more lies are needed to keep projecting our false image. If we think that we are the answer to God’s problems that is another lie. We may be called to serve God, but if we think that we can protect God we are wrong. Even as we serve the Lord, pride easily rises and we lie to ourselves about our strength and importance – even thinking that God depends on us. And to prove it, we lie to others to support our own pride. Foolishness indeed! It is time to repent!
The Foolishness Of Trying to Be Stronger Than God
John 18:15-18
Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Because this disciple was known to the high priest, he went with Jesus into the high priest's courtyard, but Peter had to wait outside at the door. The other disciple, who was known to the high priest, came back, spoke to the girl on duty there and brought Peter in. "You are not one of his disciples, are you?" the girl at the door asked Peter. He replied, "I am not." It was cold, and the servants and officials stood round a fire they had made to keep warm. Peter also was standing with them, warming himself. (NIV)
Prayer
Almighty God. Thank You for the truth that nobody is stronger than You. I am sorry for sometimes thinking that my service for You is so important and that You depend on me and my strength. Forgive me for my pride and help me to learn to work humbly with You; giving You all the glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Bible Book
© Dr Paul Adams
