Supporters’ Extra: A Self-Condemnation Story
Thank you my friends for supporting this online work I do! I hope that my devotions and music are still touching your life.
A Friendship Broken
I want to share some words from Hal Lindsey, in his book “Satan is Alive and Well on planet Earth”, for your extra devotion today, because they remind me of Peter. Here’s what Lindsey writes:
There’s nothing Satan likes better than to get a believer started on a guilt trip. As I look back over my own life, I realize that guilt is a handle that the Devil constantly tries to grab to steer me. One classic illustration that comes to mind happened to me my third year in seminary. One fellow was a real close buddy of mine. We had had three years of great times together. Then I borrowed some money from him. I told him I would be able to pay him back in about two weeks… read or listen to this full devotion on my Patreon page here – for a monthly amount of your choice.
Jesus promised to strengthen Peter's faith after his denial – and He will do the same for you. Will you return to Jesus and find strengthening too?
Peter’s sorrow at his sin pushed him further from Jesus. Instead, he should have run TO Jesus!
Jesus’ last miracle before he died was to heal a man. How unlike Him is Peter, who lashes out!
If Judas had repented, he surely would have found forgiveness. No betrayal is too big for Christ to forgive – if we come back to Him in repentance.
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday! Let me remind you what the ashes you will receive mean. First, they represent repentance.
King Saul's tragic story shows how superficial relationships and unresolved grudges can lead to spiritual isolation and deep regret. Choose today to cultivate authentic relationships and resolve any bitterness you've been carrying before it's too late.
Abram's gracious rescue of Lot demonstrates how experiencing God's grace transforms us into people who extend grace to others, even those who have wronged us.
Abram's interaction with Lot demonstrates how godly people handle conflict through humble concessions rather than prideful demands. Consider one relationship where you might need to make a concession today for the sake of peace and family unity.
William Greathouse was known for his loving and patient way with people. We should all desire his Christlike attitude in this area.
Not all relationships should be resurrected. Consider carefully if God is calling you to ‘shake the dust from your shoes’ and leave some relationships behind.
Do you need to forgive somebody? Holding a grudge is pointless, and damages your own faith. Reconcile today, by offering forgiveness even when you have been wronged.
Sometimes you need to apologize to resurrect a relationship.
Jesus experienced the deepest betrayal yet responded with unfailing love and forgiveness toward those who hurt Him. Return to Him today with your failures and shortcomings, knowing His love is greater than your guilt.
The profound truth of justifying grace means that God's forgiveness isn't earned through our good works, but freely given through faith in Jesus Christ. Understanding this transformative gift can release us from the pressure of trying to prove our worth to God.
An extra devotion to thank you for your support! Let me share a story that reminds me of Peter’s staying away from Jesus in fear of condemnation. I hope it will inspire you to go back to Jesus, if you need to, today.