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How Should I Pray, Week 3, Day 3

by David Joynt on August 28, 2018


LUKE 22:32

“I have requested, concerning you, that your faith might not die. And when you’ve recovered, you may strengthen your brothers.”

Jesus was fully aware that Peter would deny him—he famously assured him that it would happen before the cock crowed. But our Lord did not condemn Peter or manipulate him or fix his weak loyalty. Jesus said, with some sadness, but also with complete trust in his Father, “I have requested concerning you…your faith might survive and when you’ve turned around that you may help your brothers.” Jesus begged for Peter to pass the coming trial but allowed him to freely succeed or fail. He failed, before his God, his Lord, his community and all those who know the story. But Jesus offered him no wise words or subtle condemnations to avoid this. He trusted God to restore and use Peter. It is confident trust in God that allows us to treat others with genuine respect.

Prayer

Gracious God, How hard it can be to commit others into your hands. We are so tempted to force them or push them in right paths. Help us to value their freedom as you do ours, and to gain with them the influence we need to keep them. Increase our trust and so our capacity to make real requests with faith and hope. Amen.

 


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