PETER’S SWORD AND THE PRINCE OF PEACE”

 

That stubborn situation shall succumb to you because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional:  “PETER’S SWORD AND THE PRINCE OF PEACE”

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
Matthew 26:52 (AMP)
“Then Jesus said to him, ‘Put your sword back into its place; for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.’”
     In Jewish tradition and the culture of first-century Israel, it was normal for men to carry small swords or daggers for self-defense. The roads were unsafe, and the Roman world was violent. Scripture itself did not forbid self-protection — Exodus 22:2–3 even recognized the right to defend one’s household. So when Peter carried a sword (Luke 22:38; John 18:10), he wasn’t breaking the law or acting outside social custom. This is the guiding principle behind modern day Isreal allowing citizens to carry guns for self defence against terrorism.
    However, when Peter used that sword to strike the high priest’s servant in Gethsemane, Jesus rebuked him. The issue was not possession, but purpose. Peter acted out of human impulse, trying to defend Jesus through force, yet Christ’s mission was spiritual, not political. His kingdom would not come by violence, but by the power of love, truth, and the cross.
     Owning a sword was permitted; trusting in it for victory was not. Jesus taught that the true sword of the believer is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17). Our defense is not in steel but in faith, prayer, and righteousness.
Ask yourself, Do I rely on worldly strength or on God’s Word when faced with conflict?
  In our daily prayers we should seek a healthy appetite for God's word and wisdom for protection against evil .
PRAYER: Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to overcome fear .
Lord, teach me to be wise in defense but peaceful in heart. Help me rely on Your Word as my sword and Your Spirit as my strength. Amen.
+2348035536911, email:  michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com