Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers. Luke 22:31-32

Crushing

Life is a crucible sometime, isn’t it?

Have you been through hard times. Pressed on every side. Pressure building. Frustration and resistance with every move you make. Far from easy, life is challenging—nobody gets through it unscathed.

Sometimes it is circumstances you create for yourself. Sometimes it is a situation that is beyond your control. Adversity comes in all shapes and sizes. And sadly, they all fit.

Sin’s burden began in the garden. Adam and Eve traded blessing for brokenness. And we are their heirs. Your inheritance is encumbered by struggle, strain, and stress.

Life is a crucible. It chews you up, grinds you down, and spits you out. Have you been there? Are you there now?

Jesus tells Peter that Satan is coming for him. “That he might sift you like wheat.” Sifting was the task of separating the wheat from the outer shell—the chaff. The evil one’s methods are to separate you. To pull you away. From the Lord. From your faith. From the faithful. And think about how successful this strategy has been.

When trials come and hardships arise—have you ever blamed God?

Have you ever found it difficult to pray? To read the Good Book?

Have you ever pulled away from others? Distanced yourself from the Body?

I love the way Jesus reassures Peter. May it be your reassurance for those days you are caught in the crucible.

“I’ve prayed for you.” Sit with that beautiful thought for a moment. Jesus praying for you! And, if He has prayed for you, your faith will not fail. And, more to the point, His faithfulness will not fail. Ever.

But Jesus’ teaching continues. “When you have turned again…” I love the confidence of Jesus. Not “if” but “when!” It’s already done. Every battle, in Jesus, is already won. Every victory is His. “When” is the word that gets you through the darkness. “When” conquers the next obstacle even as you want to cave and give up.

Finally, Jesus provides the best redemption of your suffering. Turn around, reach out your hand, and help others who are in a similar mess. This is the body of Christ.

Have you made it through a messy season at work? Look for others who are in the midst of the turmoil. Have you found your footing following a family crisis? They happen to everyone, every day—how can you share your wisdom, love, and hope. Have you beaten cancer? Navigated your empty nest? Found new love after it was lost? How can you walk with others? Not because you have it all figured out—you don’t. Neither do I. But, you offer hope just by standing on the other side of the chasm of crisis. You are living hope because Jesus lives in you.

And the world needs your hope.