Sifting times

Jesus had eaten the Passover meal with His disciples and issued a warning that one in their midst would betray Him, and that the remaining disciples would desert Him. Simon Peter was bold and foolish enough to think that the warning did not apply to Him. Of course, he would be there to defend His Lord. How could Jesus think otherwise? However, Jesus said, “Simon, Simon. Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren,” (Luke 22: 31-32). After speaking these words, Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives and His disciples followed Him. On arrival at His special place, Jesus told the disciples to pray so that they would not fall into temptation. Then, He withdrew a short distance from them and prayed. Jesus said, “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done,” (Luke 22: 43). Jesus prayed more than once, returning after each prayer to the spot where His disciples were, only to find them sleeping. What can kingdom citizens learn from the words and prayers of Jesus? Perhaps the most precious thing that struggling and weary children of God can learn is that even when we feel alone and that no one cares, Jesus is praying for us. Think of the times, when you can feel the effects of being in the enemy’s sieve. There he is sifting through your life, turning things upside down, picking out things that catch his attention and just creating turmoil. Jesus knows that sifting times will test your faith, but He has confidence in you. Jesus knows that hardship can bring brokenness, but His words assure us that because of His prayers, your faith will not be completely destroyed. His confidence is such that He says; when you return He has work for you to do. Notice that Jesus does not say should you return, or if you return, but simply when. Jesus provided for His disciples, who were being put through the enemy’s strainer, by praying especially for Peter. Subsequenrly, the strengthened became the strengthener. In the same way, someone today is under strain and they need your prayers, encouragement and support. The Lord has empowered you to become an encourager.