Spy Wednesday // 1 Peter 5:8
Today is Spy Wednesday. Jesus laid rather low on the Wednesday of Holy Week, undoubtedly preparing Himself for what was ahead. That doesn’t mean that Wednesday was anti-climatic, however; no, not at all. This is the day we believe Satan ramped up his endeavors to end Jesus’ life. Luke 22:3-6 tells us, “Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was of the number of the twelve. He went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers how he might betray him to them. And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. So he consented and sought an opportunity to betray him to them in the absence of a crowd” (ESV).
Those are some very sad words, aren’t they? Judas knew Jesus’ movements as one of the 12 disciples. Satan knew to tempt Judas with hopes of wealth and power. We see after Christ’s condemnation to death that remorse overcame Judas and he hanged himself (Matthew 27:1-10). I often wonder how things would have turned out differently for him if he came back to Jesus like Peter did, confessing his mistake and seeking forgiveness. Can you imagine the power of that testimony?
Spy Wednesday should serve as a warning to us all. On the surface we see Spy Wednesday and remember that Judas was spying on Jesus to set in motion the events that would lead to the crucifixion. This would not have worked out quite the same if the devil wasn’t spying on Jesus’ disciples to find out who was most susceptible to his trickery. Never forget that the devil is looking for your weaknesses. He knows where you are vulnerable and will exploit that. I mentioned Peter a moment ago. Consider what he wrote, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8, ESV). Does this mean we are helpless against the evil one? NO, not at all! The Lord is faithful and will protect you against the evil one.
Trust Jesus, even when you slip and fall. Never fear that you are too far gone. Accept God’s forgiveness and offer of salvation. It will turn your life around and give you a story to put the fear of hell in the devil.
