(Be) TransformedSample

In yesterday’s reading, we looked at how prioritizing the opinions and acceptance of people over God will result in disappointment instead of the boldness and strength God intended for us. Deferring to humankind over God can also cause us to compromise, and, even those closest to Jesus struggled with this.

Peter was one of the most ardent followers of Jesus and can be credited with building the early church. After the Last Supper, Jesus and His disciples retreated to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus confronted Peter with a truth he did not want to believe; that Peter would deny Jesus three times that evening.

After Jesus is arrested, the tension in the city is palpable. Peter is questioned about his affiliation to Jesus and he denies Jesus three times, just as Jesus said he would.

How could it be so easy for Peter to denounce Jesus, who had loved him so abundantly and who he believed to be the Son of Man, the promised Messiah? What happened? Peter’s attention shifted from Jesus - the miracles he witnessed, the compassion and wisdom Jesus showed, the promises He made, to comply with the opinions of man.

If we are to boldly live our faith, we cannot succumb to compromise, and if we are to avoid compromise, we must find our identity, approval, and acceptance in Christ Jesus alone.

It is up to us to foster and maintain clarity on that truth in quiet retreats with Him where we can turn our hearts toward Him, release our hunger for people’s approval over His, and receive His enduring love.

After succumbing, Peter got back on track and so can we. Reflect on where you are depending on or distracted by the approval, acceptance, or affirmation from people in your life. Ask the Holy Spirit for a fresh revelation of your identity, worth, and purpose in Christ.