November 5, 2009 - Acts 10:34-35

“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.’” Acts 10:34-35.
Peter, in entering Cornelius’ home, is entering into a new phase of his faith journey. As a Jew, he had never to his knowledge entered into the house of a non-Jew. To go into such a home was strictly against Jewish tradition, and, being a good Jew, Peter tried to avoid contact with Gentiles. But God had something else in mind, and to Peter’s credit, he recognized God’s hand at work in bringing him to Cornelius’ household. Upon entering, Peter recognized that God had a bigger vision: that no favoritism was shown by God and that all from every nation were accepted in His sight.
In order for him to recognize God’s movement so easily, Peter had become pliable in God’s hand. He was growing in his ability to hear, to respond, and to obey God’s leading. As I think about this trait in Peter, I remember how impetuous and strong-willed he had been in the past. There was now a dramatic change in the focus of his heart.
I can identify with Peter, especially his old, brash, impetuous nature that was – “talk first – think later.” I can also recognize how God has helped me to become more pliable and workable in His hands. It has taken quite a bit of time, and I still have my moments of falling back into old patterns, but I do see changes in my ability to hear and to obey as God leads and directs me.
Questions to consider: How pliable are you in God’s hands? What hinders you from becoming more pliable? Is there an area in your life that God is challenging you in right now where you need to be more pliable?
Prayer: Father, help me to recognize Your movement in and through my life, and help me to obey how you are guiding me and stretching me. Help me to be pliable in Your hands. Amen.