Played: 36 | Download | Duration: 00:02:43

The Sifter

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat."
Luke 22:31

Jesus told Peter, ‘Satan wants to sift you as wheat’ (paraphrase). Just as wheat is separated from chaff, so Satan wants to separate you from God. One way he accomplishes this is through temptation, so here are some things to watch for: 1) When you fall, refuse to stay down. Don’t accept the lie that says, 'If you were really a Christian you wouldn’t fall'. Birth and growth are separate processes. When Jesus saves you, your spirit is immediately changed, but until your emotions, appetites and desires come under His lordship, you’ll always be vulnerable. This has nothing to do with your salvation and everything to do with becoming mature. Salvation is instant; becoming mature is the work of a lifetime. 2) Be quick to confess your sins. The Psalmist said, ‘The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit’ (Psalm 34:18). God always responds to a repentant heart. He’ll meet you at your lowest point and walk with you through the valley where even your closest friends can’t go. 3) Once you’re free, stay free. When you uproot a plant, it may look good for a while, but unless it’s replanted in healthy soil and properly tended, it’ll die. When God delivers you from something harmful, it’s to attach you to something healthy. He takes you out of a bad situation in order to place you in a good one; otherwise, you’ll seek out your old connections. So, look out for ‘the sifter!’ You’ll win over temptation only if you want to.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, forgive me when I fail, renew and refresh me when I repent and am restored by you. Shape and mold me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen