“Peter's Conversion” by Kirk Hunt

But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. (Luke 22:32 KJV)

When Jesus spoke these words, His betrayal, trials and crucifixion were only hours away. In this calm before the storm, Jesus planted an important command in Peter, “After you are changed, help the others.”

Within 24 hours, Peter would be broken, if not utterly shattered. He came face to face with the full depth and length of his flaws and weaknesses. Hiding from the Sanhedrin, and perhaps themselves, Peter and the Disciples discussed the best way to return to their old lives.

Somewhere in the darkness of his situation, Peter decided to hold together a little longer. Despite his enormous failures, Simon son of Jonas convinced himself not to give up just yet. The others followed his example and sat still a few hours more.

In the depths of his error, pain and sorrow, Peter became a different man. The transformation gave him strength and endurance that were not there before. Just as the other Disciples were about to give up, Peter's brokeness and failure gave him the power to pull them through.

Jesus knew Peter's soul would be strengthened, not destoyed, by the coming storm. There are men and women, boys and girls, who are depending on you to be there for them. Despite the hurt and harm you are living through, God has plans for your new strength.

You will not be destroyed. You will be transformed. Don't forget to help the others.

Think: God' Power shine brightest through my weakness.

Pray: “Lord, help me to become stronger through my trials.”

Copyright © October 2007, Kirk Hunt