June 2

2 Samuel 19:11-20:13, John 21:1-25, Psalm 120:1-7Proverbs 16:16-17

Pray: I am a work in progress Lord. Help me to keep my eyes on what You are doing in me while not getting caught up in what You might be doing in others. It is not wise for me to compare myself to others. You have a purpose and a plan for my life. Help me to be laser focused on that.

Read: Jesus said to Peter, “When you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go. Jesus said this to let Peter know by what kind of death he would glorify God.”

Historical tradition tells us that Peter was crucified like Jesus. Some report he was crucified upside down. So he indeed had others stretch out his arms and put him to death. Peter didn’t deny Christ when he, himself, was the offering. There were all kinds of works of grace and preparation of heart that took place in Peter’s life preparing him for death. Tests we fail when we are young can be passed as God gets a hold of us and grace grows in us over time.

Edify: Our past mistakes and failings need not haunt us. Peter made some huge mistakes. His enthusiasm often raced ahead of his character development. But after Pentecost a different Peter began to emerge. He began to let go and let God. Rather than confess who he was and what he would do, he began to voice who Christ was and what He would do. Folks, it isn’t about us. The sooner we make life all about Him the sooner we come into purpose and fulfillment.

Practice: Practice self-examination. Has this past week been about you or about Christ? If the pangs of self-promotion start to sweep over you, simply ask for forgiveness and tell the Lord that you want a fresh start.