As Jesus was in the upper room with His disciples prior to going to the garden where He would be arrested and led away to ultimately be crucified, He knew what the disciples would go through. Amongst His encouraging words that night were. . .
“(1) Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1 ESV)
This was where the Lord desired them (and us) to keep the focus turned. And, like us, they struggled as they moved through what was soon to take place.
Consider the shifting focus of Peter. Knowing the struggle of Peter, Jesus let him know He had prayed for him. (Luke 22:31-32) Though Peter thought he had the strength to stand strong regardless of what he faced (Luke 22:33) Jesus knew what Peter would do. (Luke 22:34) And when Peter was under the pressure of questioning from others around him, he regretfully caved. (Luke 22:54-60) We then read. . .
“(61) And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” (62) And he went out and wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:61-62 ESV)
Someone has said, “Regret looks back. Fear looks around. Worry looks in. Faith looks up.”
Looking back, Peter could have been left mourning, “I thought I was stronger than that! How could I have denied my Lord?” Some people get stuck there with a feeling of unworthiness to press on. Peter’s action arose from allowing his focus to rest on what was around him [just as in the storm (Matthew 14:29-31)], and though he had earlier drawn a sword to defend his Lord (John 18:10), he was not so brave at this moment. Then, looking within himself, Peter could not muster the courage he claimed he would have to even stand alone should that be called for. (Matthew 26:33) However, though that is where Peter’s focus had been, it was not where it remained. Encouraged by the Lord (i.e. John 21:15-19) we know Peter boldly pressed on in faith to serve the role the Lord intended for Him.
Let us remember, it is not the looking back, around, or within that keeps us moving forward, but in continuing to look to the Lord in trusting faith. Anytime we begin feeling the twinges of regret, fear, or worry, let us look up to the One Who is able to make all things new (2 Corinthians 5:17; Revelations 21:5), brings us into a relationship of love that casts out fear (1 John 4:18; also 2 Timothy 1:7), and reminds us of the Father Who knows all we need (Matthew 6:25-33) and is able to provide and sustain.
Hear Jesus’ words, “(1) Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1 ESV) With steadfast faith, let us keep looking up! It is where our Lord is ultimately leading!
Have a great day SUSTAINED BY AN ABIDING FAITH IN JESUS!
Carl
