Matthew 26:35 But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same.

Bravado is a common human trait, but follow-through is a different matter! Peter was the one whose courage had specifically been challenged, but we should not forget that “all the disciples said the same.” Apparently John, the youngest disciple (or so tradition tells us), was the only one brave enough to act in ways that would specifically brand him as a disciple in the hours after Jesus was arrested. That may be because he was young enough that the recklessness so common in teenagers was operative. We are all prone to say one thing and do another, just as Peter did. That’s not to say that we are deliberately hypocritical, but rather that we have an inflated sense of our own ability and strength. Humility is key! At the same time, we need to be able to say with Paul that we can do everything we are called to do, through Christ who gives us strength. (Philippians 4:13) The point is, we don’t have wisdom, strength, courage, or anything else to boast of in ourselves, but God will supply everything we need when the time comes, if we are dependent on and committed to Him.

I would sooner not face martyrdom, or at least not a painful one, if given the choice, but I know that God is more than able to bring me through whatever He brings me to. However, that certainly doesn’t insulate me completely from anxiety. I’ve not faced potentially fatal circumstances, but I think I would have less trouble with those than I do with much lesser problems! Trusting obedience isn’t just for the big, watershed moments (or those that we recognize as such), but for the everyday, step by step process of living as a child of God. As I see others make wrong choices, failing to place Christ first and proclaim Him as their Lord, I must remember that I have no high ground to stand on there, because I have done the same. At the same time, I must remember that Jesus said that if we acknowledge Him, He will acknowledge us, but that if we deny Him, He will deny us. (Matthew 10:32-33) As a pastor, I must constantly exhort and encourage the believers to stay true to the Christ we serve, in the little things of life as well as the big, so that we will not miss out on any of the blessings He has for us.

Father, thank You for the opportunities You are giving the members of this church to proclaim publicly that they are Christians, and for their joy and liberation in doing so. I have seen so many times the joy and relief when someone who had been hiding their faith from their family and others has come out with it openly. Help us all acknowledge You, not just in words, but in actions and thoughts also. Our minds are where the real battle lies! Help me lead the flock into true discipleship, for the salvation of many and for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!