From May 13, 2019 – May 19, 2019 we are praying and fasting 12 hours per day (6am – 6pm) only drinking water. Of course, if you need to eat to take medication, please do so.
The areas of focus for this fast will be discipline, commitment to Christ, and His purpose for our lives. It is based on Luke 22:54 – 62 when Peter denied Jesus. Each day, one principle from this passage will serve as the focus of our fast.
Day 1: May 13, 2019
After a little over 3 years of walking with Jesus, Peter still denied knowing Him when Jesus was on trial.
Luke 22: 56 A servant girl saw Peter sitting there in the firelight, and looking closely at him, she said, “This man was also with him.” 57 But Peter said this was not true; he said, “Woman, I don’t know him.”
This shows us that self-preservation can often outweigh loyalty.
Self-preservation can often outweigh loyalty.
Instead of saying that he was not “with” Jesus, which, while still not true, would have been a more direct response to the young woman’s accusation; Peter went to the extreme and said, “I don’t know Him.” Peter was afraid that the mere mention of his association with The Messiah could possibly result in him being on trial as well.
While many may read Peter’s response and shake our head in disgust and/or surprise, too many followers live, at times, as if we “do not know Jesus” when put to the test. Some say, “I do not know Him” through a lack of true financial stewardship to support the Kingdom of God via the local church. Others say, “I do not know Him” through a refusal to stand up to Christian character assassins out of fear that they too will be criticized. Still others say, “I do not know Him” every time they do not publicly witness to nonbelievers. Then there are those who live as double agents and only publicly “know” Jesus on Sunday while in church; but outside of the church their language, thoughts, and actions say, “I do not know Him”.
Before anyone is quick to say that you would NEVER deny Jesus, please understand that not even Peter could predict a scenario in which he would go to such extreme as to openly deny that he was a disciple of Jesus. Instead of looking down on Peter in self-righteousness, we should learn from him and pray today for:
1. Forgiveness for any time you may have allowed self-preservation to outweigh your loyalty to Christ and His kingdom,
2. The boldness to never intentionally speak or live as if you do not know Jesus, and
3. The success, safety and security of missionaries all over the world whose lives are threatened because they follow Jesus and share Him with others.
After you read and pray throughout the day, be sure to take at least 5 minutes to listen for God to respond. Keep a journal to record what you hear Him say.
Brother Thomas, thank you for your commitment to our Lord. I can relate all too well with the subject…shamefully, I too have denied Jesus. I didn’t necessarily verbally deny Him, but my actions were clear and that’s just as bad if not worse. I’ve since repented and – I believe – been restored, but even though Christ has forgiven me I still struggle with the guilt and shame of my actions. Great article Brother. Thank you and please keep this old Kentucky boy and his family in your prayers. I’ll be lifting you and yours up in mine. The Lord Bless you.
Thank you for your support and prayers. I will certainly keep you in my prayers. Your transparency is powerful and encouraging. Have a blessed day!