Dear Explorer,
Re-Read Matthew 26:31-35
And
Re-Read Mark 14:27-31
And
Read Luke 22:31-34
Don't forget that Simon is the same man as Peter. He is called both.
What does Jesus tell Simon Peter?
“Satan has asked permission….”
This is incredibly reassuring to me. No, not that Satan wants to sift me – but that he must ask permission. Do you see the safety that you have as Jesus' follower? Remember that God is stronger, smarter, bigger than Satan and God is the One Who decides what He will allow Satan to do. And He does it from a position of overwhelming love for you.
Some people get mad at God when He allows pain or suffering or grief – but the truth is that God knows what is best for our long-term growth. And He promises to never give us something that He can't turn to good. (Romans 8:28)
A lot of people say that God promises to not give us more than we can handle. I disagree! I believe He often gives us more than we can handle so that we'll yell for help! He wants us to learn that we can't do this life on our own. So, I believe, part of the reason for pain and problems is to get us to run to Daddy God and ask for help.
So, don't be afraid of Satan's attacks if you are a follower of Jesus! God is bigger than Satan and Satan can't touch you without God's permission. And God knows what is best and loves you.
Then Jesus tells Peter that these attacks from Satan are going to make him stronger and he will be able to strengthen his brothers after he has worked through these struggles.
If you are a follower of Jesus, then you are protected from Satan's attacks by a loving God Who knows what is best for you. If He allows Satan to attack you, then you can be 100% confident that God is using him to make you stronger or better in some way.
In His service, dale
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