“No!” Peter insisted. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the other disciples vowed the same.  Matthew 26:35 (NLT)

Jesus Knew His Destiny

On the night He was to be arrested, He prophesied to the disciples that they would all betray Him. Peter absolutely believed he would never desert his Master, but Jesus calmly let Peter know he would disavow knowing Him three times before the rooster crowed. And that is what came to pass.
 
Our Lord understood Peter. He knew Peter’s intentions were good even while his flesh was weak. Peter was loyal to Jesus, and He would later be commanded by Jesus to lead His church … to “feed My sheep.”
 
The night Peter betrayed Jesus three times must have been very dark for him. After all, Peter was a fisherman; a man of physical strength; passionate for Christ and His ministry. Peter had been certain that he would never abandon his friend, Jesus. 
 
When Jesus returned to Galilee after His resurrection, He ministered one-on-one with Peter which would lead to Peter’s healing and to his calling to lead the new church.

A third time he asked him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” 

Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.” John 21:17 (NLT)

There are instances in our lives where, as believers, we are very certain of our thoughts and actions. We pray, read the scriptures and fellowship in the hope that these godly influences will guide our steps. It is a hard truth when we are confronted because one of our actions or attitudes offends a brother or sister in Christ. 

We might believe that we are perfectly aligned to what God has called us to do. But the Lord tells us to lean not on our own understanding. If the challenge comes from a respected source, then the first step is to understand why there is offense. We then need to consider what our response should be so healing can take place. 

Relationships will test our dependence on God’s Word and how deeply we are committed to His way for resolution when difficulties occur with others. The more Christ-like our reactions are in these moments by understanding, the greater the possibility for healing.

God bless you all!