Quiet Time Coaching Episode 500 | New Thing Series — Part 55 | “Peter’s Sifting” | Malcolm Cox

Quiet Time Coaching Episode 500 | New Thing Series — Part 55 | “Peter’s Sifting” | Malcolm Cox

 

Introduction

A new thing! I'm Malcolm Cox. Welcome to your daily devotional podcast anchored in Isaiah 43:19: 'See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.'

 

We are currently looking at God doing a new thing in the life of the Apostle Peter. Today we explore Peter’s sifting.

 

““Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” And he said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death!” Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this day, until you have denied three times that you know me.”” (Luke 22:31-34 NRSV)

 

Peter’s Sifting

• Jesus predicts that Peter will be sifted.
• The sifting appears inevitable, and thereby necessary.
• Peter is not alone, and Satan is not guaranteed the final victory
• Peter is reassured by Jesus that his prayers are with him, but not that the sifting can be avoided
• Jesus expresses hope for Peter and a purposeful future - post-sifting

 

For Reflection

What is sifting good for? It separates the useful from the useless in us. Satan wanted to disgrace God through our failures, but our Lord knows that sifting can make us stronger. It helps to remember that, in our struggles, we have God with us:

 

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV11)

 

Are you being shifted right now? Is it catching you off guard? Remember what Peter himself wrote:

 

“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.” (1 Peter 4:12 NIV11)

 

Why not take some time today to pray about any sifting that's going on in your life and ask God to keep you strong?

 

Conclusion

I hope you find your heart, your life, your congregation and your world inspired by God doing a new thing. Until tomorrow, take care, and God bless.

 

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.

 

Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.

 

If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org.

 

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"Carpe Diem" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

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