I turned my phone to "do not disturb" this morning and opened my Bible. It was a fight for me to concentrate and turn to the word, but I knew it was necessary for the rest of my day. Oh how I need it!
In my reading today I was in Matthew 26:69-75. Our Bible study group is going through the Jesus in Me Study by Anne Graham Lotz. I have loved the way she has us breaking down scripture. Sometimes I know what the Lord teaches me during my time with Him isn't just for me, He wants me to share it with you. So, with some kids still sleeping here I am, writing.
In this passage we see Peter deny Jesus three times. Maybe you've read that and thought to yourself that Jesus predicted it, it came to be, and moved on. Today I learned much more.
In verse 69 a servant girl comes and tells Peter she recognizes him as having been with Jesus. Two more times people recognize Peter as associating with him. Here's what I realized.
People will notice when we're set apart for Christ. Will we deny being with Christ or stand firmly with Him?
Perhaps you like Peter have downplayed your relationship with the King of Kings. If we're honest I think we all have. But friend, we have something Peter didn't have at this time, the Holy Spirit.
We can boldly, kindly, and confidently share about Christ because we know the Holy Spirit is our helper and counselor.
Jesus is the one who gives us boldness, courage, and compassion in our speech. Despite what our flesh may fear, we can boldly stand with Christ.
We know the Holy Spirit gives power and only though Him will hearts be changed.
After denying Christ three times Peter realizes what he has done and weeps bitterly, Matthew 26:75. May we live boldly, unashamed of the gospel. Remember Romans 1:16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Maybe you're not bold or not vocal. Maybe you don't know where to start. Ask the Holy Spirit to use you and speak through you, whether it's to one person, or one hundred.
May we be like David and be able to relate to these words,
"I have told the glad news of deliverance in the great congregation; behold, I have not restrained my lips, as you know, O Lord. I have not hidden your deliverance within my heart; I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation; I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness from the great congregation." - Psalm 40:9-10
The world needs to hear this good news you know. May we share it unashamedly when it questions if we've been with Jesus.