Question: are you passionate about God, or merely passive? Notice the steps that led to Peter’s denial of Jesus.

Step one: ‘Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers’ (Luke 22:31-32 NLT). Jesus warns Peter he is a target, but Peter doesn’t believe Him.

Step two: ‘They arrested [Jesus] and led him to the high priest’s home. And Peter followed at a distance’ (v. 54 NLT). Peter was one of Christ’s closest disciples, but you’ll notice, now he is following Him ‘at a distance’.

Step three: ‘A servant girl…said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!” But Peter denied it. “Woman,” he said, “I don’t even know him!”’ (vv. 56-57 NLT).

Step four: ‘That moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly’ (vv. 61-62 NLT).

Here is how it works: first you assume you won’t fall, so you’re unprepared for Satan’s attack when it comes. Next you allow the problems and pressures of life to make you forget that your first commitment must always be to the Lord. Finally, you end up spiritually defeated. You say, ‘That will never happen to me.’ That’s what Peter said! The reason ‘Satan hath desired to have you’ (v. 31 KJV) is because he knows when you become passionate about doing God’s will, you will be unstoppable. So, never lose your passion for God.