Are you passionate about God, or are you passive? As you think about how you’d answer that question, read about 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 warned Peter that he was a target, but Peter didn'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 now he’s following Jesus ‘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!”’ (v.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’ (v.61-62 NLT).

This is the process of losing passion for God: first, you think you’re strong enough not to fall, so you’re not prepared for Satan’s attack when it comes. Next, the problems and pressures of life make you forget that your first commitment should be to God. Then you actually turn your back on Him in some way. Finally, you end up spiritually defeated. We might think, ‘That’ll never happen to me!’ But that’s just what Peter said. Satan tries to win us because he knows that when we become passionate about doing God’s will, we’ll be unstoppable. So, never lose your passion for God.

What Now?

At the end of each day, try giving yourself a score out of 10 for the day, where 10 is completely passionate about God and 1 is completely passive. Do you notice any patterns that cause your enthusiasm to wane? Talk to God about how to overcome those times.