You Are Not Better, Just in a Better Place

Luke 22:31

[31] "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat.

Satan is not able to just act. He must ask for permission. He did with Job, and still had to with Peter. After Jesus' resurrection, do you really think it's changed?

It didn't.

Hebrews 12:7

[7] Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?

You will notice, it doesn't say Satan is treating you in any way. God is in charge...not Satan. Satan may be prince of this world, but God is God.

Luke 22:31-34

[31] "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat.

Again, the truth is Satan has to ask for permission to test God's children.

[32] But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."

You will notice that Jesus, being God in time even asks the Father for a good outcome. Jesus, being God, The Father, in time and space, isn't going to say a prayer that isn't effective...or heard. He asked for Peter's faith not to fail.

Did it?

[33] But he replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death."

[34] Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me."

The test wasn't in the denial. Jesus said plainly that the denial was going to happen. The test of Peter's faith wasn't whether or not he would deny Jesus. That was a given and what the devil asked for.

The test was in the return. Did Peter trust in God's grace? Did Peter really believe God's acceptance was by faith alone?

He did...as Jesus prayed he would.

"And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."

You think you have a choice to not sin? Did Peter here?

No.

God's plan includes our sin and failure. Do you trust His plan? Do you trust His Grace? Do you trust Him?

Do you believe that the scriptures are God's words?

Do you ignore truth because it is uncomfortable to your pleasant view of God.

Do you really want to know God? Or are you satisfied with a tiny perspective?

Even that isn't your choice.

Faith is a gift. If you have it, really have it, you will trust God even if you deny Him, or He sends you to a cross...upside down.