In our recently concluded women’s Bible study, a phrase stood out to me in a way it hadn’t before—despite having heard it multiple times. It’s the idea that when we come to know God, He doesn’t change our personality. Instead, He redeems it, transforming it for His kingdom’s purpose and glory.
Examples of this truth abound in the Bible, especially in the lives of Peter and Paul. But my focus here is Peter, the subject of our study for the past six weeks. Peter, as many Bible readers know, was famously impulsive. For those of us who identify as impulsive, we may find his story especially relatable.
Before Peter’s denial of Jesus as recorded in the Gospels, he often acted without thinking. He would ask bold questions that no one else dared to, speak before processing, and act on raw emotion. He was essentially ruled by his curiosity and feelings. Yet, this same Peter was chosen by Jesus to lead His church and pioneer the post-resurrection movement of faith. What others may have viewed as a flaw—or what Peter himself might have seen as a burden—Jesus saw as a strength. This is evident in Jesus’ prayer for Peter to withstand the devil’s schemes (Luke 22:31-34).
After Peter’s denial of Jesus, followed by his heartfelt repentance, we see a shift in his demeanor. His redeemed personality became evident. No longer reactive but obedient, Peter was quick to follow instructions, as seen when he responded without hesitation to the vision in Acts 10. Similarly, when an angel supernaturally freed him from prison, Peter didn’t argue or question (Acts 12). These moments demonstrate how Peter’s impulsivity and boldness were transformed into tools for God’s glory.
The key takeaway for me from this study is that God doesn’t call us to become someone entirely different. Instead, He seeks to redeem even the parts of us we might find frustrating—or that others might find off-putting. For His kingdom, nothing is wasted. So, I am inspired to draw closer to God, embracing my flaws and trusting that all of me is redeemable in His hands. I encourage you to take time to study Peter’s life and see how his story might resonate with you.
Shalom,
iamsosasmama ❤️
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