Not Always My Favorite Passage

In Luke 22:31-32, Jesus tells Peter that “Satan has asked to sift you as wheat.” As we read the rest of Jesus’ statement it is clear that Satan’s request has been granted. Oh, boy. Poor Peter. Things are about to get rough.

But like everything else in the Bible, there’s a personal application. You see, the “you” is plural. I’m pretty sure Satan has asked to take a run at all believers. And God, in His good wisdom and loving desire to see us perfected and purified, has granted that request. So just as much as Peter was about to be severely tested and even hit rock bottom (see verse 62), we also should not be surprised at the testing of our faith. A severe, hitting-rock-bottom, where-else-shall-I-go kind of trial – where nothing remains but the gold of our relationship with Jesus (see John 6:68).

Just remember that, as He did for Peter, Jesus prays for us so that when we turn back we will be available to strengthen our Christian brothers and sisters who are going through their own similar but different trials. God Himself allowed (even authored) the trial and is keenly aware of it. He is intimately involved every step of the way, catching every tear that falls from our eyes. If our hearts feel broken, His is more so. But He sees the end, knows the end, even if we don’t.

And as He promised Peter, God Himself will get us there.