Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men.” Matthew 16:23 (NIV)
The world needs good leaders, especially the military. God knows that and calls men and women to lead.
But there must be caution. Leadership can be intoxicating. Leadership can breed pride and arrogance quickly- in a New York minute.
Peter had just been appointed by Jesus to be a key leader in the church. But as soon as Jesus announced to his disciples that He would be killed and then raised to life, Peter rejects that notion and rebukes Jesus.
Peter’s concept of the operation was out of sync with God’s plan. Jesus would not rule in the traditional sense. He would lead by laying down his life for the sins of the world.
Jesus wasted no time. He warned Peter to be careful. He told the disciple that Satan was trying to sift him like wheat. Peter needed to get back in line spiritually and follow God’s guidance, not the Devil’s.
Be wise. Don’t become a stumbling block to God’s purposes for your life.
