BIBLE READING: Leviticus 15; Mathew 27:1-23
“And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly” – Mathew 26: 75( KJV).
Not all repentance is genuine. Some are mere regret because of the embarrassment one caused to himself. Most times when people are caught for wrong actions they put up a face or action to portray repentance. While some could be genuine repentance others may be just regret that their action has brought disgrace or embarrassment to them.
Genuine repentance must be preceded by remorse for disappointing God and the people. True repentance is brought about by a conviction by the Holy Spirit or the word of God which they have violated. Such conviction by the Holy Spirit brings godly sorrow which works out repentance.
Genuine or sincere repentance is followed by a change of heart and consequently a change of lifestyle. One repents and forsakes the old life. It takes a broken and a contrite spirit to acknowledge one’s sins and to truly repent.
Although Jesus warned Peter of the impending danger and temptation coming, Peter was too self confident to admit the possibility of falling. His confidence was in self, what he can do apart from God. No wonder Jesus told him that when he is converted, he should strengthen the brethren. Jesus was referring to conversion from confidence in self to confidence in God.
However, Peter on recognizing the fall and remembering the word of the master, wept bitterly. This was not crocodile tears or cosmetic cry. It was a sincere cry from a broken heart that recognizes how sin hurts God. Peter felt very bad for disappointing his master. He was indeed very remorseful. It was a repentance that marked a turning point in Peter’s life. He learnt not to put his confidence in his human ability but in the help of God.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to always show genuine repentance each time I sin against you.
Rev. Vincent Diolu