By Nancy Virden (c)2025

Jesus told his disciple Peter, that when Peter was old someone would take him where he would not want to go. He said this to indicate that Peter would die a martyr’s death.

The timing of this personal prophecy was perfect for Peter because he had just failed to stand up for Jesus due to fear. Roman guards stood near Peter when he was pointed out as one of Jesus’ disciples. Peter denied it three times.

No doubt he felt ashamed and doubted he could be trusted to be a follower of Jesus. When Jesus told him he would die a martyr, I think the old fire in Peter’s belly reignited. He had been reassured by the Lord himself that he would not succumb to fear again. I suspect it emboldened him; it would embolden me.

When we fail, break promises, do not do right by someone, or destroy our potential or possibly that of someone else, shame will threaten to take us out of the game. Yet no one is too far gone that God cannot save.

Like Peter, who wept in sorrow over his sin, we must be willing to sincerely repent. God will forgive us, too.

Tomorrow I have to go where I do not want to go – the dentist! Experience has taught me that this is a good decision and the staff will not be scary. God will go with me and I can talk to him there. I already have enough peace to sleep well tonight.

Peter knew from experience that Jesus was trustworthy and His promise would not fail. It was safe to let go of his self-doubts and trust His Lord. We can too.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

John 21

“I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.”  Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. For a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. 

NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. This website is not intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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