Monday, April 3, 2023
You can look back at certain moments of your life and see where everything and everyone (including yourself) was against you. You've heard many people describe those exact moments in their lives. Was it pure luck that you made it through the rain when so many drowned in the storm? Do you feel as though you have fully escaped what life has thrown at you, or are you prone to getting caught in a spin-cycle of negative thoughts? It's not uncommon to still see yourself as the person you were when life kept you at your worst.
It’s a fight every day to keep from slipping backwards, like a game of hate and manipulation is attacking your mind, while love is after your heart.
Luke 22:31-32
31 "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32 But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers."
Satan wanted (Simon) Peter, and Jesus was fully aware of the dangers. At this same time, Satan had teamed up with Judas. The idea was to destroy the faith of all of Jesus’ disciples. Judas' betrayal (he was fully complicit) fulfilled a prophecy, but you see, at this moment, Jesus fought for Peter and knew that Peter would, in turn, fight for his brothers.
Before his crucifixion, Jesus let us all know that he would pray for us and protect us against the evils of the world. It doesn't necessarily mean that physical harm or sickness won't come to us, and it doesn't mean that we won't use our pain to turn away from God. However, when we fall, we can rise again and make a better choice. And when we are spiritually healed, we are better equipped to help our brothers and sisters heal from similar situations.
So, did you make it through the rain on your own, or were you prayed through it?
Questions:
What do you do when you believe life isn't on your side? What have you done after you’ve made it through a storm?
Next Steps:
Listen to “Through the Rain” by Mariah Carey. Pray for others as you know Jesus prays for you. Join a Group to experience a life of community with other Christians. Take what you learn and encourage others in the same way.
Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for having my back when it didn't look like anyone was there for me. I appreciate the opportunities given to me to make changes in my life and the life of others. It is encouraging to know that God prays for me and protects me against the unseen dangers of the world. Amen.