Scripture Reading: John 21:15 KJV
“So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.”
Devotional
Jesus did not ask Peter, “Do you understand everything?” or “Will you never fail again?” He asked, “Lovest thou me?” That is the question beneath every other question in the Christian life.
Jesus already knew Peter’s heart. He knew Peter had denied Him. He knew Peter had gone back to fishing. He knew Peter’s shame, grief, and weakness. Yet Jesus came to Peter in love and asked the question that would bring Peter back: “Do you love me?”
The same question comes to us today. Do we love Jesus more than comfort, sin, pride, reputation, security, bitterness, or our own way? If we answer, “Yes, Lord,” then that love must move us. Love for Christ changes where we go, what we say, how we treat people, and how we serve.
Jesus is not asking because He lacks information. He is asking so we will examine our own hearts.
Reflection
If Jesus looked at you today and asked, “Do you love Me more than these?” what would “these” be in your life?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, Thou knowest my heart. Search me and show me anything I love more than Thee. Forgive me for divided affections. Help me to love Thee sincerely, fully, and obediently. Amen.
Action
Write down one thing that competes with your love for Christ. Pray over it today and surrender it to Him.
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