Long before Duane Johnson took on the name “The Rock” in his athletic career, Jesus had dubbed Peter, his disciple, with the same moniker. Where Mr. Johnson’s name was most likely due to his physical stature, Peter’s was due to the spiritual strength Jesus found in him.

   Peter is one of the most relatable personalities in Scripture. His absolute humanness makes him so identifiable that his stories have become endearing to us. We read about his indiscretions and waywardness and think, “I would have done the same thing in his place!” We see him pledging his devotion to Christ in one scene (Matt. 26:35), and in the next, Peter is denying that he ever knew Jesus (Matt. 26: 69-75)! But despite his impulsiveness, Peter was loyal. He suffered the same human challenge we all have of wanting to be good and trying to do right but never quite reaching the mark. No matter how many times Peter fell short of being righteous, he picked himself up and went right back to following Jesus. His desire to serve the Lord always won out over his sinful nature. 

  Fortunately for us, Jesus is as patient with you and I as He was with Peter. Being near Jesus allowed Peter to be bold, even fearless. When Peter saw Jesus walking on the water, he wanted to try it too (Matt. 14:28); When Jesus performed miracles, Peter wanted to know if he’d be able to do them as well (Matt. 17:20).  If there is one thing we can model from Peter, it is that he wanted to be just like Jesus. Because of his actions and the way he spoke, people recognized that Peter had been with Jesus (Acts 4:13). Seeing Peter’s heart for the people, his humility to admit when he was wrong, and his desire to follow Him, Jesus knew that it was Peter that would be the spiritual foundation for the first church; he would be The Rock upon which the church was built (Matt. 16:18).

   Peter might have been stubborn and reckless, but the Lord used his bold spirit to bring about a spiritual revival where thousands came to Christ in a single afternoon (Acts 2:38-42)! God can use us too. Even with our imperfections and shortcomings, people will know Jesus through us if we remain in His presence!

Suggested Prayer:

Dear Lord, I long to be known for being in your presence. I desire to be bold when speaking of your love and mercy. You are worthy of all of my devotion. Thank you for your patience and your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1. Matthew 16:18 (KJV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.