Author Darlene Conard

There was a time when I loathed the very thought of training. The monotony of repeating lessons felt like an endless cycle, each session blending into the next with a frustrating predictability. I could feel the weight of impatience in the air as my instructor stood before us, a calm but determined presence urging me onward. “Get it right,” they would insist, their voice steady, yet carrying an unspoken challenge.

In recollection, I now see that each moment of struggle was a gateway to a deeper understanding, expanding the horizons of my spiritual awareness. Every obstacle I faced seemed to whisper its demand: “Try me! I’m here to test your limits and reveal the true essence of your character!” These experiences, once burdensome, have now become catalysts for growth and insight.

“Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 KJV

When we convince ourselves that falling is out of the question, Paul cautions us with a simple yet profound reminder: “Take heed.” This warns us that we will inevitably face trials to challenge our convictions. These tests will reveal whether we possess the faith and strength to maintain our stance amidst adversity.

Can I be transparent here? I’m the worst when it comes to being a perfectionist! One mistake that’s it! So, I keep a record of what I should and shouldn’t do. “I should have known better! When …when am I going to learn? My list is a mile long in my sight. Fear strangles the purpose of God in our lives. Unlike me, Peter had at least the courage to step out, no questions asked. I’ve come a long way in that area.

Peter did something that the other disciples did not: he stepped out onto the water. In doing so, he shifted his focus from Jesus to the storm (Matthew 14:25-31). Later, when the soldiers came to arrest Jesus, Peter cut off the ear of one of the soldiers (John 18:10-11). At one point, Satan entered Peter as he argued with Jesus about His impending death, burial, and resurrection. Jesus mentioned, “Whatever is bound on earth is in heaven. These are the keys.” At that moment, Peter’s words reflect not God’s will but Satan’s scheme. He attempted to thwart God’s plan, but God ultimately canceled Peter’s agenda (Matthew 16:22-24). Jesus warned Peter, “Satan desires to sift you as wheat” (Luke 22:31-32). This sifting is undoubtedly an experience that brings wisdom and knowledge. Embrace it and act with discernment!

The Bible is not discrete concerning Peter’s failures; however, it speaks loud and clear of God’s mightily using him. Jesus didn’t say, “Peter, you failed Me. I’m taking back the keys. I don’t want my church founded with you involved.” No… He said the opposite. (Matthew 16:18) He saw what Peter would become, not what he was at that moment. The one who denied Jesus led the spiritually blind into the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost. (Mark 14:66-68) (Acts 2) Jesus promised, “The gates of hell shall not prevail.”

When we perceive ourselves as weak or lost, God recognizes the fierce warrior within us, embodying strength, courage, and resilience that we often fail to see.

My friend’s son, who won the battle over drug addiction, said something to me I’ll not forget. “God puts His strongest warriors at the head of the battle. Darlene, if He brought you to it, He’ll bring you through it.”

 Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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