DIVINE SETUPS

"Simon, Simon, satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed
for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned
back, strengthen your brothers." - Luke 22:31-32

Have you ever perceived yourself to be at one place spiritually only to
discover that you were actually far from this place? Peter perceived
himself to be so spiritually strong that he was prepared to suffer
greatly for his Master. Yet Jesus knew where Peter really was in his
own pilgrimage. He knew that Peter's enthusiasm did not match his reality.
He was suffering from an attitude of self-righteousness. So, how did
Jesus help Peter match his perception to his reality? Peter was the
object of a divine setup.
First, notice that satan asked permission to sift Peter as wheat. Jesus
determined that satan would be used to bring Peter to the maturity
level both Jesus and Peter really desired. And Jesus was praying that Peter
would pass the test. Jesus told Peter that he would deny Him three
times that very day. Peter could not believe what Jesus was saying.
Sometimes the lessons we must learn are very painful. This experience
was necessary in Peter's life. It was necessary to purge Peter from his
sin of self-righteousness. This very lesson would allow Peter to come
face to face with his own misperception of where he was in his
relationship and devotion to Jesus. When he was forced to confront
this,it nearly broke him apart. He wept bitterly once he realized he had
done just as Jesus had predicted.
This confrontation with reality is necessary at times in our lives. Do
not be surprised if Jesus allows you to experience some painful
circumstance. You may be the subject of a divine setup designed to
bring you to a greater maturity level in your walk with Jesus. It may not be
a fun experience when you go through it, but you will, like Peter, become
a leader whom God will use to lead others.