Daily Devotional – Friday, February 24, 2023
For there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its tender shoots will not cease.
Job 14:7 (NKJV)
The lowest moment in Apostle Peter’s life illustrates why we should never lose hope. This man had spent three and a half years at the side of Jesus. He and Zebedee’s sons were Christ’s best friends among the twelve disciples.
Do Not Despair
Yet, on the day when Jesus needed Peter most, this loyal lieutenant denied knowing his Master. Twice, Peter betrayed his Lord. At the third instance, Peter’s guilt was so great that he “went out and wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:62).
What was going on in Peter’s mind from Friday morning to Sunday morning, when Jesus resurrected? He regretted his actions and repented of his sin. Remember that Judas had also betrayed Jesus, but guilt had led him to suicide.
Remain Hopeful
Why did Peter not take his own life? He must have remembered what Jesus had told him before: “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you; that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” (Luke 22:31-32).
Peter did not give up because he realized God had not forsaken him. He had gone through his sifting, and his faith was stronger. It was now time to strengthen the other disciples who had also forsaken Jesus and fled during His arrest. (Matthew 26:56).
Keep Hope Alive
Peter’s experience and reaction to betraying Jesus epitomize Job’s statement, “For there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its tender shoots will not cease.” (Job 14:7). What powerful imagery!
You may have sunk into the abyss of sin like Peter, and you feel God cannot accept you back. Do not despair. Perhaps you are undergoing fiery trials like Job, wondering whether God has forsaken you. Hang in there. There is hope. You will rise again.
Never Lose Hope
The God who rescued the Israelites from Egyptian bondage after four centuries will intervene in your financial situation soon. He who remembered Joseph after years of slavery and incarceration will restore your health and heal your relationships. As long as you are alive, never lose hope.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I will never lose hope because I know You have not given up on me.
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Amen! May God help me see hope beyond frustrations and dissapointments.
When we lose hope, we lose everything. Thanks, Doc.