Reading: Luke 22:31-46

Jesus told Peter, “Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat” (31).

I don’t know what all that means. But I do know it doesn’t mean anything good.

As I read that, the thought impressed itself into my heart that Satan desires to have and sift my family (me included).

I was challenged and encouraged and comforted by what Jesus told Peter next:

“But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren” (32).

As I shake under the devil’s sifting efforts, sometimes it seems like I can barely hang on any longer. I’m so glad for God’s reminder of Jesus’ work for me. I know verse 32 is Jesus speaking to Peter, but other New Testament verses make similar promises for me.

Mine! I claim them for me!

That said, something else really strikes me from these two verses: I must pray for my family, that their faith fail not. Satan is attacking and will continue attacking them.

In my own sifting and struggling and hurting, I remain the husband and father in this family. I cannot be careless or forgetful in resisting the devil and his work against them.

But I must hang to verses 32 and 43.

from Luke 22:46

A little bit more from Luke 22: Ministering Spirit

Reading: Luke 22:15-30

Jesus’ earthly ministry is winding down. His downhill ascent to the cross is accelerating. His load is getting heavier. The dreadful, awful end looms. Betrayals, denials, and mockery await — and agony. The hour of lonely aloneness is upon Him.

He gives His disciples something to help them remember.

And they?

“And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest” (24).

What is on Jesus’ heart today?

What is His focus?

What is His goal?

As those first disciples, I frequently ignore His heart.

I’m too busy with me.

Ouch! Help! Please!

Thank you, Lord.

from Luke 22:27

A little bit more from Luke 22: He. For Me.