Scripture
John 21:15-17 NLT
After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.”
Consider
In God’s kingdom, relationship matters more than performance. God’s first and greatest commandment is not to live a perfect life but to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. God is less interested in our list of good deeds than he is in our answer to his simple question: Do you love Me?
In the above passage, Peter had already denied Jesus three times and was suffering from the memory of his betrayal. Jesus could have simply dismissed Peter and passed on the responsibility of church leadership to another disciple. But Jesus knew the depth and sincerity of Peter’s love for him. In this dialogue he forces Peter to move past his feelings of remorse and to refocus on the source of strength and wisdom that Peter would need to do God’s work in the early church—his love and close fellowship with his Lord.
Like Peter, our fellowship with Jesus gives us the strength and wisdom we need to face hardships in our daily commitment to living life as a disciple. A sure and strong connection with our Lord helps us to center our identity and purpose in Him. It frees us from the control of difficult people and troublesome relationships and helps us to persevere in circumstances beyond our control.
Although we may be tempted to blame others for the pain and distress we feel over a conflict, we might do better to examine our relationship with God and reflect on these questions:
- How well do I love my Lord?
- Is there a part of my heart, my soul, or my mind that I have withheld from God?
- How might surrendering that part of myself to God change me and the way I approach this relationship problem?
- Is God calling me to love this person with a love only God can give me?
Pray
FATHER, like Peter I have failed you in so many ways. I ask for faith to trust in your love for me and your forgiveness that covers all my failings. Teach me to love you more each day. Reveal the hidden parts of me that slip into my relationships and cause trouble. Thank you for your healing wisdom and your faithful love that never stops pursuing me.
Reflect
Psalm 86:11-13; Matthew 22:37-38
Ponder
How might deepening my fellowship with God help me handle a difficult relationship?
Leave a Reply