But there is a river near my house, the flow of which I never heard in my life, as it pours on in its deep and majestic course the year round. We should have so much of the love of God within us that its presence shall be evident without our loud proclamation of the fact.
The first step in Peter’s downfall was his self-confidence. The Lord warned him. The Lord said:
“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not” (Luke 22:31–32).
But Peter said:
“I am ready to go with Thee, both into prison and to death.” “Though all shall be offended because of Thee, yet will I never be offended.” (Matthew 26:33). “James and John, and the others, may leave You; but You can count on me!”
But the Lord warned him:
“I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest Me.” (Luke 22:34).
Though the Lord rebuked him, Peter said he was ready to follow Him to death.
That boasting is too often a forerunner of downfall.
Let us walk humbly and softly. We have a great tempter; and, in an unguarded hour, we may stumble and fall and bring a scandal on Christ.