Luke 22:31-32
“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”
Experiencing the crippling effect of our recent snow and ice storm has been very revealing. Some have ranted and raved at the hard working electrical crews who have been laboring 24 hours a day to restore power. At the same time I have heard from others who have used this time to draw closer to the Lord and to each other.
A few people have asked me if I thought God was punishing us for the terrible sins that are so prevalent. Only God knows the answer to that question, and it is clear in scripture that there have been natural disasters to chastise people for their godless lifestyle. That being said, many other periods of sin and rebellion have not been dealt with in this manner.
What can we learn when bad things happen to good people? I feel that we have a glimpse in today’s Scripture. Peter was a fervent disciple of Jesus and felt that he would face death rather than deny his Lord. Jesus tenderly shared with Peter that Satan had asked permission to sift him. Why? Jesus said it was so his faith would be increased in order to strengthen his brothers. He did go through the time of testing and victoriously became the leader of that band of believers who saw 3,000 accept Jesus in a single day.
Are you experiencing the pressures of life? These ordeals may bring you to a greater level of service than you can imagine. Rather than question why you are being sifted, draw closer to the Lord and allow Him to deal with Satan.
Blessings dear hearts. Walk with God today, even in times of sifting, and allow Him to make you a blessing to others!
—Pastor Cecil