February 9. Matthew 16

It’s not the Easy Path

The shock on Peter's face showed his complete misunderstanding. Satan found an opportune moment (Luke 4:13) in what Peter viewed as being supportive. As Peter grasps Jesus to rebuke Him, Jesus exclaimed the words he would never forget. "Get behind me, Satan!" He said directly at Peter.

Previously, when many still held varied opinions, Jesus complimented Peter regarding his insight that Jesus was, in fact, the Son of the living God (v16).

Peter had figured out the truth, but he didn't know the truth's meaning. Peter missed the full package accompanying his statement of Lordship. Jesus finishes Matthew chapter 16 (v24-28) with fuller sense.

"…he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." (v24)

and

"For whoever wants to save his life will lose it" (v25)

Making Jesus our Lord means a life of alternate focus. We don't fix our eyes on goals of material ownership. We center them on the cross. We don't live to show our children what the world has to offer. We show them what Jesus offered us and live our lives in response. We don't grow in pride and bitterness but grow in love and humility. We stay patient behind closed doors and step through where God has opened. We walk with God in His word being careful of bad yeast while praying for our adversaries. We battle our natures and live according to our Lord, willing to die for him.

The call is high, really high.

Despite circumstances, I try to lay my life down before the cross. I offer whatever talents I have to wherever God opens the doors. But I find it easy to get caught up in my own weaknesses that causes my mind to stumble. At times, past or current relationship struggles make it hard to see God, and I can get discouraged. Turning to the cross and talking with others always helps. I strive to move forward. So on I go.

What situations are most difficult for you to see or understand God? Are their priorities or ideals that you hold on your heart and mind more than the work of Jesus?