Listening and Leaning
Jesus knows me better than I know myself. There are two sides to that truth. It’s affirming to be known while at the same time scary to be exposed. When I consider the Lord discerns the thoughts and intents of my heart, I pause, and I pray. Join me.
Lord of All,
You know the true me, every crevice of my heart, and yet you love me. Thank you for exposing me in the light of your presence and using your truth to expose me to me! Amen.
“You comprehend my path and my lying down, And are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, But behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.” Psalm 139:3-4 (NKJV)
Peter is quick to declare to Jesus that his unfailing commitment and certain loyalty would never falter.
“Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.” Matthew 26:33 (NIV)
And after an assured warning from Jesus:
“This very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” Matthew 26:34 (NIV)
Peter passionately replies:
“Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You.” Matthew 26:35 (NKJV)
Peter meant it. All the disciples agreed.
They had every intention of being steadfast.
They overestimated their sincere intentions and underappreciated eternal wisdom speaking to them. Me and my big mouth! I think more highly of myself than I ought to, allowing zeal to get ahead of humility.
“Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! Those who hear and don’t act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they are, what they look like.” James 1:22-24 (MSG)
Peter, because you did not listen to hear the words of truth and receive them with a teachable heart, you leaned on your own understanding. You kept moving ahead in your own strength and self confidence. Jesus singled you and two others out to enter the garden of Gethsemane with Him. In sorrow and deep distress, Jesus asked you to stay and watch. Instead, the stress and strain of the Passover and being in Jerusalem took a toll.
Life drains sincere intentions and understanding right out of our desire to be faithful.
“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41 (NIV)
This is straight from the mouth of Jesus. Same words of warning are for me and you. Do not depend on your declared love and loyalty to carry you over the dread and drain of life. Do not lean on past experiences and enthusiasm to be your source and strength.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)
Lord Jesus,
You are always right. I want to learn to hear your voice speaking truth to me about me. My understanding is influenced by my limited perspective and my unrestrained feelings. Teach me to surrender my plans and trust you with all my heart. My intentions to follow you are not enough!
Thank you for training and teaching me.
