THE INFLATED SELF

John 13:38 reads, "Really? You'll lay down your life for me? The truth is that before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times."

Jesus spoke these words, if you remember, to Peter after the last Passover Feast Jesus had with His disciples. Judas had already left to do his deed of betrayal. Jesus had washed their feet and warned them that He must go away for a while. Peter claimed he could go with Jesus; he was prepared to die with him. But Jesus knew Peter well and said, "You will deny me three times."

I am much like Peter, I think. I can do that! I can deny myself! I gave Jesus my life and asked that He would come into mine. I was most sincere.

But, like Peter, I have denied Jesus. I have denied Him many times. I can see the denials when I look backward at things I have done--or things I did not do. Whenever I think or do something totally for myself instead of for another, I deny Jesus. My selfishness is apparent to others. Even when I try to help someone, I wonder how much is for self-agrandizement. Yes, I am full of self. My self is so huge and---Oh, No! I keep trying to make it bigger!

This sin is part of my central core and only the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ can keep me from total self-inflation. Lord, help me! Amen

Yet, Jesus loved Peter. Jesus forgave Peter and called him the Rock. I know I am loved, too. Christ has been so good to me. I thank you, Lord, for showing me how deep and wide your love is. Thank you for leading me away from myself and keep me working at the never-ending sin of self. You are wonderful, Lord! I praise your name!

Happy is the day I am more of Him and less of me!

I remain---Your friend, Jo