Tough Love Produces Character.

“So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord. You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed My lambs.” - John 21:15 (MEV)

Jesus questions Peter three times. He asks “ Do you love me?” Many believe that Jesus asked three times to redeem Peter’s three denials. The beauty here is that Jesus already knows the answer and because of this He is not asking to find out but rather to teach Peter. Jesus never doubted Peter, I mean why would he? He is God made flesh, he both foresaw and fore-ordained Peter’s life. Christ in his foreknowledge, extends a redeeming grace to Peter. Yet the phrasing of Jesus’ questions makes Peter grieved. He gets frustrated. As I would imagine being asked the same question over and over again would be frustrating.

Too often we are quick to play victim when we are questioned and tested. This victim nature always calls us to cower away and run from the questioning. God will directly confront our lives. He will ask questions that penetrate our hearts. Much like what he does here to Peter. In the midst of trials and tests, know by God’s grace they produce a work in you. It is never for the Lord to see if we are ready, but rather for us to see His hand at work in our lives.

Peter was encouraged and called at this moment. Jesus took the time to reassure Peter. In the depths of God confronting Peter, he is redeeming him. He is also doing so much more than just testing, he is calling him to his purpose on earth. God will lead us through seasons of wrestling, in the wrestling consider it pure joy. The Lord may be working in you so that Godly character may be cultivated within you.