Human commitments

Matthew 26:33-35 “Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same.”_ – NIV

Jesus was going to be arrested, tried and killed. The disciples all committed themselves to stand with Him all the way. Peter made a further commitment, that he would be with Jesus even if all fell away. He was ready to go with him to the point of death.

But Jesus told Peter he would deny Him three times that night. And it happened. All the disciples fled. Peter denied Jesus, even calling curses on himself! He miserably failed in his commitment. I believe Peter and the rest of the disciples were genuine in their commitments to stand with Jesus all the way even to death.

But the human limitations and weaknesses stood in their way. They all fled and abandoned Him. Jesus later restored all of them to Himself after His resurrection. He didn’t accuse them of failing Him. Most of us make genuine commitments to God and to others.
But for various reasons, we fail to honor them. Let’s always endeavor to make amends whenever we fail. As we make commitments, let’s remember that we need God’s help. Jesus said without Him, we can do nothing.

James cautioned those who make plans and think they will succeed on their own to always give room for the Lord’s will to be done. And when we are not sure, let’s not be quick and out of excitement to make commitments. Where we have failed, God restores us to Himself. Let’s return in repentance and humility to God as Peter did, and to those we failed.

John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

James 4:15 “Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”

Shalom children of God.