DAY 5: THE THINGS WE SAY

As I grow older, I seem to manage the desires, choices, and plans that we discussed over the past few days a bit better. I find myself more in touch with God’s leading presence while trusting Him more easily with the outcomes. But an area that still keeps me tossing and turning at night is how a certain conversation played out. I start to think of a hundred things I should rather have said. And I end up feeling very aware of the powerful effect that a few words can have for a long time after they are spoken.

Many characters in the Bible suffered the consequences of foolish words, but I think Peter experienced the worst regret of them all. One reflexive sentence took him down a path of denying Christ repeatedly. “Peter swore, ‘A curse on me if I’m lying - I don’t know this man you’re talking about!’” (Mark 14:71, NLT). Once he started lying, he had to push through. What agony it must have been for Peter every time he heard that rooster crow (Vv. 68, 72).

Peter’s words had the power to save or destroy his life on earth and in heaven. Just a short while ago he was one of the twelve apostles to whom Jesus spoke these words. “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32-33, NLT). I cannot imagine greater disappointment than what Peter must have felt. Until we remember God’s promise to guide our steps. “The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?” (Proverbs 20:24, NLT).

How God navigates his perfect will in a sinful world remains a great mystery. He will never change his mind about sin. “Listen to me, you who have understanding. Everyone knows that God doesn’t sin! The Almighty can do no wrong” (Job 34:10, NLT). Yet our sinful actions are not beyond his control. I am sure that was the only reason Peter carried on.

You see, Jesus reassured Peter of his unconditional love before Peter had any idea what was coming. Jesus had already interceded for Peter’s repentance before he even spoke the dreaded words of denial. “‘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’” (Luke 22:32, NLT).

Why didn’t Jesus rather help Peter not to sin? Why didn't he show him a way out of temptation? (1 Corinthians 10:13). That is just the point. We do not know and we do not need to know.

Let us trust God with our words. Let us grow in using our words wisely while trusting God with the outcome when we seem to fail. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere” (Acts 1:8, NLT).

Scripture readings:

Proverbs 20:24

Mark 14:66-72

Matthew 10:28-33

Job 34:10

Luke 22:31-34