Road Signs to Defeat

Anyone who has traveled much knows that when directions are given they usually include road signs. One might be to turn left at the big barn. Another to watch for the intersection with a gas station on each corner. As long as the road signs are noted then arriving at the desired destination is certain. Spiritually there are also some signs to watch for in avoiding the wrong road.

In Luke 22:54-60 Peter's road to the denial of Christ reveals some important warning signs for us. Notice that first Peter "followed at a distance" when Christ was arrested and led away. How often a believer's downfall begins by keeping a distance between himself and Christ. We must not let what people might say or do keep us from immediate identification with Jesus. Shortly after that Peter is found sitting among unbelievers warming himself by their fire. It doesn't take long when we are distanced from Jesus to be drawn to the comforts of the unbelieving world. Finally, Peter fulfilled the prophecy Jesus had made and denied the Savior three times. When the rooster crowed Peter must have been jerked back into reality. Perhaps he said to himself, "How did I get to this point?"

We, too, often are driven to ask that question. Generally we do not go from follower to denier in one big step. The process happens over time with little decisions along the way that lead us farther and farther from the Lord. Then suddenly we come up against an awakening event or circumstance that brings forth the same question Peter must have had. It was not too late for Peter to be restored and used in a mighty way for his Lord. Nor is it ever too late for us. If you have begun the same journey away from Jesus that Peter took, you can turn back to him at any time. If you are following at a distance, get back into fellowship. If you have actually denied him by your words or actions, run to him with repentance. Jesus will restore you. If neither of these have happened, then praise the Lord for his goodness. God is good all the time. He is good in our times of victory and He is good in our times of failure.