Tag: Kin

Cock-A-Doodle-Doo!!!

John 13:36-38; 18:15-18, 25-27

The one who stood strong, when others became weak… the one who boldly spoke out against unrighteousness… the one who was daring  and willing to walk on water… the one who was armed and ready to fight, to defend the life of his Master… of all the disciples who followed after Jesus, none compared to Simon Peter.

Peter had become one of three disciples considered to be part of the inner circle, but they were all endowed with the same power and authority. What separated Peter from the others was, his boldness in all situations. Peter wasn’t afraid to represent his Master, nor did he hesitate to speak out on behalf of the brethren.

Following after Jesus was just fine and dandy for Peter and the rest of the disciples, that is, until what Jesus had been warning them of, finally began to unfold. Due to the fact that many of the chief rulers during this time loved the praise of men more than the praise of God, the message Jesus preached would soon turn many against Him and His followers. While Peter spoke boldly during times of peace, when the grit finally hit the fan, he cowered in fear. How did the once zealous disciple lose his boldness in mere moments? Jesus knew Peter would break under pressure, and told him to his face, “Verily, verily I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice” (vs.38). I can picture Peter acting like a teenager after hearing these words, and saying within himself, “I don’t know what’s going on with Jesus, but He should know I’ll always have His back, and I’ll never deny Him”. Well, we know how that eventually played out. Peter did as Jesus had predicted, and was left to wallow in his shame.

Be careful not to think too highly of yourself, especially during troubling times, because there may come a moment when your words will be put to the test. Rather than talk a good game, let your living do the talking, and allow God to keep you humble, to avoid inevitable shame and embarrassment.

“The enemy uses our dirt to shame and manipulate us. God uses it to harden our foundation and strengthen our faith in Him.” – Ell

Pharoah’s Ring

Genesis 41:41-49

Throughout the Bible, there are numerous underdog stories, that uplift those with heavy hearts, and encourage others with hung down heads, but of all the stories written, few compare to the life, and legacy of Joseph.

Born into a prestigious family line, Joseph was destined to continue in the footsteps of his predecessors. Like all feel-good stories, Joseph’s beginning was hard, harsh, and extremely cruel. From being hated by his own kin, to being imprisoned for false accusations, the servant of the Lord refused to allow his struggles and persecution to hinder his godly duties. How often do men turn away from God, and seek other sources for answers, when life hits them with seasons of trials and tribulations? Very often, from my perspective. The times we should cling to God most, is when trouble hits, because these are the very moments God desires to use us to accomplish great things.

Joseph’s patience, and endurance through his challenging season, paid off in an unprecedented way! From being literally thrown in a pit, then imprisoned, Joseph’s faithfulness to God awarded him the position of “ruler over all the land of Egypt” (vs. 43b). God may not make us kings, queens, and rulers over countries for our consistent holy living, but He can, and will bless His people in other ways. Whether we are blessed with good health, wealth, favor with man, healthy and obedient children, or any other good thing, staying true to God in the midst of hard times, will always work to the benefit of the Saints of God.

We live this life for purpose and reason, but not too long, for only a season.

Ell