RENEW REFRESH REFOCUS
CASNFCI SCRIPTURE & PRAYER FOR THE DAY
A New Start:
“Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said … Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” — John 21:15. After his resurrection, Jesus spoke words of purpose, assurance, and words of grace to Peter. Only a few days earlier, Peter had stood by the fire and denied even knowing Jesus (John 13:36–38; 18:25–27). Now Peter stands by another fire, and Jesus makes him reaffirm his loyalty three times to Him (John 21:16–17). This is important because when Peter realized that in his fear, he had disowned his Lord, his heart was broken and he wept bitterly (Matthew 26:69-75). Psalm 51:17 “A broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise”. When Jesus met his disciples at the Sea of Galilee after his resurrection, he spoke words to Peter that assured him and all of us that with God there is always room for a new start not like the world. Three times, Jesus asked Peter if he loved him. And each time, Peter responded positively. With each of Peter’s responses, Jesus recommissioned him for service. “Feed my lambs,” he said. “Take care of my sheep.” And “Feed my sheep.” Three times, Peter denied Jesus. Three times, Jesus make Peter confess His loyalty. Although the Lord knew that His questions would cause Peter to be grieved, the Lord also knew that grieving over our sins is a necessary part of being restored from those sins to a place of useful service for Him. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matt. 5:4). Anyone who looks at sin as no big deal cannot honestly serve the Lord. And no one can have the deep love for Jesus that sustains ministry who doesn’t appreciate the price that He paid to redeem us from our sins. The Lord doesn’t restore us just so we can enjoy our relationship with Him, although that is primary. The result of our love for Jesus is that we will serve Him.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for a new start. Help me to serve you faithfully. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Rev. Isaac G. Y Bangalu Founder & CE
Couples & Singles Network for Christ Initiative
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Thank You.
Lord, I appreciate the price you paid to redeem me from my sins. I love you and I have chosen to serve you to the end. Help me through the journey I pray.