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.
Even as he was being stoned to death, Stephen prayed for his killers - a mirror image of Christ's own dying prayer, and a challenge to release any bitterness we may be carrying.
Peter's repeated failures didn't disqualify him from Jesus' love or mission - his foundation of faith proved stronger than all his flaws. Come back to Jesus today, no matter how far you've strayed.
Peter had the right foundation in Christ, but his faith didn't stop him from repeatedly getting it wrong. Take heart today if you feel like you keep failing - there is always hope and forgiveness in Jesus.
As He was nailed to the cross, Jesus cried out for the forgiveness of His enemies - practising to the very end what He had always preached. Consider today whether there is someone in your life you need to forgive.
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.
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.
Stephen's story reminds us that Christians have always paid a price for their faith - and calls us to ask whether we are willing to do the same.