Whenever I read the passage where Peter denies even knowing Jesus, before He goes before the High Priest, Caiaphas, and eventually to His death, many of us state, just like Peter did, that there is no way they would deny Him. But really, would we stand up for Jesus if we thought our reputation, wealth, honor or lives were threatened? Many have told me that they would stand strong for Jesus even under the pressure of death. I have my doubts in most instances. Peter too swore he would stand firm but as we all know he fell apart when faced with reality.
How vividly this Bible story speaks to me today!
When I fail to confront a person using God’s name in vain, the cock crows.
When I fail to speak out against the abortion of pre-born infants, the cock crows.
When I fail to speak out against the abuse of women and girls, the cock crows.
When I fail to confront those who remove the mention of God in public places, the cock crows.
When I fail to speak out against the presentation of homosexuality as acceptable behavior by God, the cock crows.
When I fail to speak out against the abuse of the weak, the cock crows.
When I fail to speak out against adultery and fornication, the cock crows.
When I fail to forgive the trespasses of others, the cock crows.
When I fail to be satisfied with what God has given me and want more, the cock crows.
When I am indifferent to another’s suffering and pain, the cock crows.
When I fail to actively participate in the political process and allow the godless to prevail, the cock crows.
In a dozen ways each day, the cock crows for me, and like Peter, I weep bitterly.
Jesus, grant me that day, as You did Peter, the ability to walk in Your footsteps, to be bold and unafraid to stand firm against wrong and be firm for what is right—and the cock will crow NO MORE!
If you died today, are you absolutely certain that you would go to heaven? You can be! TRUST JESUS NOW
Read more articles by Stephen A. Peterson or search for articles on the same topic or others.
Point well taken. I've asked myself many times if the time every came when I had to endure persecution for my faith, would I survive? If I can't even speak up for what is right, how can I ever be willing to die for it?
.gif){kind=small}
