Peter . . . said to Him, "Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble." - Matthew 26:33

She made a New Year's resolution never to say never. Janet Kirkman had never intended to marry, have children, work on computers, and live in California. But she did get married, has two wonderful children, worked for a computer giant, and lived in California. God overturned nearly all her planned "nevers."

Such a resolution reminds us that God's plans may be very different from our own. But it can also safeguard us against pride and our vulnerability to temptation under pressure.

As Jesus was teaching His disciples about true service by washing their feet, Peter said to Him, "You shall never wash my feet!" (John 13:8). But when the Lord told him he could have "no part" with Him without learning that lesson, Peter quickly reversed himself (vv.8-10).

A little later, Peter again tripped over that word never. "Even if all are made to stumble because of You," he said to Jesus emphatically, "I will never be made to stumble" (Matthew 26:33). That never soon melted into bitter tears of shame and remorse (vv.69-75).

Janet recommends: "Watch your nevers! Nevers are 'me' oriented and God is 'He' oriented." Let's keep our focus on God - which is where it belongs.

-DJD

I to Christ my life have given,
Ever His alone to be;
Oh, what peace and blessed assurance,
That He has a plan for me!

-Thiesen

A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. - Proverbs 16:9