Peter was a fisher of men—but not initially.
The apostle tops my list of outstanding Bible characters. God transformed this ordinary fisherman into a dynamic leader of the early church. The folly and humanness in his early life make him a saint that’s relatable and one we can learn from.
Peter was a man of contradictions. He was impulsive and strong-willed, yet capable of great love and loyalty. He left everything he had to follow Jesus. When something needed to be said, he said it—but was quick to blurt out words before thinking. A man of faith, he was both courageous and fearful.
Once, Peter left a boat and walked on water to go to Jesus. When he saw the wind, he took his eyes off Jesus and began to sink. He cried out for help, and Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. Christ rebuked him gently for doubting.
Peter was the first disciple to confess Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16). He boasted he would never forsake Jesus, but in an hour of crisis after Jesus’ arrest, Peter denied even knowing Him. When Peter realized what he had done, he wept bitterly.
Yet Peter’s story doesn’t end in failure. Jesus loved him, forgave him, and restored him. On the day of Pentecost, Peter preached boldly, and 3,000 people were converted. The simple fisherman became a mighty fisher of men. Persecution followed, but Peter rejoiced that he was counted worthy to suffer for Christ’s sake.
If you have experienced failure, remember God can use it for your good by bringing you to a deeper trust in Him. There may be consequences to face, but failure can be a stepping stone to future success.
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Susan Ferguson is a freelance writer who resides in Madison, Mississippi, with her husband. She is an accountant by profession, but loves to share her faith through writing. She writes devotionals for www.knittedtogetherbygod.com and is a member of www.faithwriters.com where she participates in their daily devotional.