Matthew 16 Journal

Matthew 16 journal

Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Who do you work for?

Jesus asks a great question “Who do you say that I am?” Peter responds that he is THE Messiah. This morning, I hear Jesus asking “Am I your Messiah?” How about you? All through the Old Testament you can see the difference between people like David who say “God, you are my God,” and people like Saul when he talks to Samuel “Let us go and worship YOUR God.” Saul’s problem was that he never let God be HIS God.

Identity crisis. Jesus changes Simon’s name to Peter which means Rock. Peter’s name meant solid ground. Jesus also gives Peter a purpose. Peter is responsible for the keys to the kingdom of God (No Pressure). Often in the bible, when people encounter God, they experience a new identity and a new purpose. Who do you see yourself as? Who does God see you as? What is your purpose? Imagine an airplane being built and at the end the builders say “What are we going to use this for? Maybe we can hang some plants on it.” NO, an airplane was designed for the purpose of flying. God designed you for a purpose and it will involve sharing more of his love, mercy, and grace into this world. The only way to find your purpose is to surrender everything to him and allow him to be your Messiah.

Shortly after Peter’s revelation, he displays his human nature to trying to tell God what to do. Jesus exposes the plan that he will have to suffer and die. Peter rebukes Jesus to tell him his own plan. Unfortunately, Peter does not see the big picture and the long term benefits of Jesus’ necessary sacrifice. Is there a something that you need to sacrifice in order to allow God to leave a legacy through you? For me, I see God asking me to spend less time on the computer and more quality time with my family. (Oops, gotta go)