Sifted Like Wheat.

   "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon that your faith may not fail. And When you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
   But he replied, "Lord I am ready to go with you to prison and to death." Jesus answered, " I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me." Luke 22:31-34

    In the book, "When Godly People Do Ungodly Things", by Beth Moore, she discusses how even the righteous will fall. It simply amazes me to know that Satan has to ask God permission to tempt us. It just makes me step back and remember just how much power God has. Satan doesn't have any reign on believers lives. He must make a request first to bring an attack upon us. Beth Moore used example of men in the Bible who were attacked by Satan and not just any men, but passionate, devoted followers of Christ. She mentioned Peter, Paul and Job and how Satan each requested permission to attack them.
    Simon Peter was following after Jesus Christ and was a steadfast disciple. In the midst of an attack from Satan we must clothe ourselves with the Armor of God each day in order to prepare for anything he might throw at us. It is very important to stand clothed in the Word of God. I so desire to memorize as much scripture as I can. It's so uplifting as well :). Look up Ephesians 6:10-18.
    An encouraging thing about Christ (there are many!) is that he calls the broken and sinful and the ones who desire to follow after Him. A scripture I read tonight really uplifted my spirits and know with all my heart it was Lord speaking. "I have not come to call the righteous, but the sinners." Mark 2:17. I am merely a sinner being shaped by God's grace each day! Oh praise Him! :)
     "I believe God allows Satan a certain amount of leash where believers are concerned, but I am convinced that if he wants more than his daily, allowance he has to get permission. None of us is less important to Christ than Peter, John or the apostle Paul. He would NEVER take lightly one of Satan's attacks on his followers. For Satan to launch a full-scale attack of seduction on a wholehearted, sincere and purely devoted follower of Christ, you bet I believe he has to get permission." -Beth Moore