“Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us. ” — Romans 8:34 

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Imagine, for a moment, that you’re Simon Peter. You’re spending time with Jesus and enjoying every moment. But then He suddenly turns to you and says, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers” (Luke 22:31–32 NLT).

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Here’s a more literal translation of what Jesus said to Peter: “Satan has been asking excessively that you be taken out of the care and protection of God.”

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In Simon Peter’s case, however, Satan himself had set his sights on him. This serves as a reminder that when temptation comes into the life of a child of God, the devil must first ask permission. He can do nothing in our lives that God has not allowed, and God never will give us more than we can handle.

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The Bible says, “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure” (1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT).

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God won’t give you too much. He knows your breaking point. He knows how much you can handle. And you might be able to handle a lot more than you think you can. Sometimes, it may seem as though you’re overwhelmed. But God is close by watching over you, and Jesus is praying for you to be strong that your faith may not fail. 

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So, catch this truth. Not only did Jesus pray for Peter, but He’s praying for us as well. Romans 8:34 assures us, “Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us” (NLT).

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He is pulling for you right now. Just as Jesus stood up for Simon, He is standing up for you. Jesus is praying that your faith will not fail you in times of temptation and adversity.  

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So, be strong in the Lord and the strength of His might. You can make it. Be an overcomer. Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. Keep your eyes on Jesus, He is praying for you! 

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Better Together 2024

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Pastor Larry 

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