Have you ever suggested a "course correction" to God?

Today Mark will share a passage of scriptures in Matthew 16 where Peter tries to do just that, course-correct Jesus. Jesus had just given Peter the keys to the kingdom, because Peter correctly answered the question "whom do people say I am?" But just five verses later, Jesus calls Peter Satan. Same conversation, same day. Why?

When Jesus starts to explain His mission of suffering and death, Peter interrupts and says, "God forbid it. This will never happen to You." He tries to course-correct God Himself. He's basically saying, "Jesus, your plan sucks, I know a better way."

Now, from our point of view, Peter wasn't being evil, he was being logical. He wasn't being rebellious, he was being protective. He wasn't trying to destroy a plan, he was trying to help. But Satan's best work is often wrapped with good intentions.

Think about it. Our procrastination can be disguised as the good intention of "waiting for the perfect moment." Our forgiveness is delayed because "I'm protecting myself from hurt." Our compromise is hidden under "trying to keep the peace."

Each excuse sounds noble, but it stinks of sulfur.

The real scandal is that Jesus knew Peter would stumble again; deny Him 3 times, abandon Him at the cross, run and hide after the resurrection. But Jesus chose him anyway because broken leaders are better than perfect ones. Born again rebels make the fiercest warriors.

Former "satans" can spot deception faster than perpetual saints.

Peter's failures became his greatest credentials. He realized his "satan moments," when he doubted God, became spiritual foolishness.

So, when we try to edit or change God's plan, remember: we're not being wise, we're being Peter at his worst. We're being exactly what Jesus exposed. The difference between satan and saint is to completely surrender to God's plan. Don't try to help it along. Don't think you know better. Just surrender and follow.

Send us a text