RTW 2023

Jesus turned around and looked at his disciples, then reprimanded Peter. “Get away from me, Satan!” he said. “You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”

Mark 8:33

Life is found in death.

Victory is found in coming last.

For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.

Mark 8:35 (NASB)

“Peter is a perfect example of how a sincere heart coupled with man’s thinking can often lead to disaster.” –  David Guzik

In Mark 8:27-30, Peter declares Jesus as Messiah.

In Mark 8:31-33, Peter is used by Satan.

Can I, or am I being used by Satan?

Of course, we shudder the thought! But, read the Amplified translation of our key verse, then ask we need to ask the question again.

But turning around [His back to Peter] and seeing His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind Me, Satan! For you do not have a mind intent on promoting what God wills, but what pleases men [you are not on God’s side, but that of men].“

When we reason, interrupt, and justify what is happening based on our own understanding,

• We interpret life through a human lens, rather than the heart of God
  Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
  Philippians 2:3 (ESV)

• We make decisions in the flesh, rather than according to God’s Will
  Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
  Romans 12:2 (ESV)

• We advance the ways of the flesh, rather than the Kingdom
  Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
  Colossians 3:2 (ESV)

“Peter, get out of my way! Satan, get lost! You have no idea how God works.”
Mark 8:33b (MSG)

We really have no idea how God works, so we need to keep our mouths shut, eyes up, and knees on the ground.

Great short video from Gotquestions.org on this subject

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The only way I can have the correct response is to have the correct perspective. The only way I can have the correct perspective is to allow the love of God, the Word of God, and the Spirit of God consume me.