What would you say is the epitome of failure? Consider Peter, who vehemently denied knowing Jesus or having any association with Him three times, as he even cursed and swore, saying, “I do not know the man!” Matthew 26:69-75. This is one of the greatest stories of failure and redemption. Peter, the one who said he would never deny Jesus, now harshly betrayed Him! This was the one who had even cut off a man’s ear in defense of Him the night they came to arrest Him. Now he shed bitter tears, as he lived three long days and nights with the horrid crucifixion scene before him. He must have wondered if he could ever face Him again. That’s when the beauty of God’s forgiveness, because of His grace stepped in on resurrection morning! Not only would Peter face Him, but would even be prompted, as he was given the opportunity to confess three times that He loved Him, countering his three denials. It happened as the ladies entered Jesus’ tomb, as an angel said He had risen. He told the ladies to go, tell the disciples…”AND PETER” the news. (Mark 16:6-7) It’s beautiful how Peter was singled out because God didn’t want him saddened any longer, and knew his restoration was in store! He knew the true heart of Peter. He knew about the regret, the tears and the long sad days that needed closure. Soon after His resurrection, Jesus prepared a breakfast for the disciples, which included Peter. After they had eaten, Jesus asked Peter three times, if He loved him. Each time Peter said, Lord, you know that I love you. And, with each I love you, Jesus gave him a commission. He told him to take care of people, which he referred to as sheep and lambs. Jesus trusted him after his utter failure! Not long after this Jesus ascended and The Holy Spirit came on the Day of Pentecost. It was here his commission started as Peter preached, telling the people to repent and receive forgiveness of sins. At that moment three thousand people responded in agreement and were added to God’s kingdom. Three harsh denials, countered with three love confessions, bringing three thousand souls to Christ! What a God! What a Savior! After this, Peter considered the things of God valuable, as he used the word precious seven times, when pertaining to the things of God, in first and second Peter. God’s word says those who have been forgiven much, love much. Restoration is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. It is for the believer who fails, and for the unbeliever, who needs forgiveness. The need for restoration comes to all of us at one time or another. We, like Peter, must accept God’s forgiveness and reaffirm our love for Him. Child of God, if you have fallen, forgive yourself and receive all God has for you. If you’ve never accepted Jesus as your Savior, the Bible says today is the day. Simply believe in Jesus’ death and resurrection. Repent of your sins and invite Him into your life. His blood will cleanse you from all unrighteousness. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life; John 3:16.
What would you say is the epitome of failure?
