Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

Lord, Search my Heart Read Mark 14:53-72 When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, “This fellow is one of them.” Again he denied it. After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, “Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” Mark 14:69-70 When asked by Jesus “Who do you say I am?” Peter had answered, “You are the Messiah.” It was upon this rock of revelation that God was going to build His church. Peter was sure he would not deny Jesus. He vehemently defended himself when Jesus prophesied his denials and told him that Satan had asked to sift him. We know that the devil roams around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. We are to resist him and stand firm through faith in the victory of Christ’s blood shed for us (1Peter 5:8-9). Peter did not pray even after Jesus admonished him to pray so that he would not fall into temptation. Therefore when challenged, he denied all accusations falsely and disowned Jesus. When the cock crowed, Jesus turned and looked straight at him (Luke 22:61). Their eyes locked and Peter was brought to focus on the Lord. He humbly remembered what Jesus had said about his denials. He then wept bitter tears of repentance. Jesus had prayed for Peter that his faith would not fail. He is still interceding for us in heaven while the Holy Spirit intercedes within the believer on earth. Peter was later asked three times by the Lord, “Do you truly love Me?” He could answer from the bottom of his heart “Yes, Lord, You know that I love You” (John 21:15-17). It was Peter, the stout-hearted, who preached on the day of Pentecost. Such is the grace, mercy, lovingkindness, patience and faithfulness of our God! Invite God to search your heart, convict and lead you in His ways. Pray that the eyes of our heart may be enlightened that we may know in our heart what we know in our head.