Peter’s Self-Sabotage and Ours
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.(Jeremiah 29:11)
The Apostle Peter was a mess on several occasions. For example, Peter was nervous on the mountaintop and made inappropriate statements in front of Moses, Ezekiel, Jesus, and God. The same guy denied Jesus three times and later got into a footrace with John on the way to the empty tomb. Ouch! Uncomfortable! Like so many people, Peter fell victim to self-sabotage. Whether you’ve hurt yourself or mourned the pain of others, most of us know the struggle of self-sabotage.
In the February 8, 2024, Washington Post article, “Do you self-sabotage? Here’s how to stop,” Danielle Hayden guides the reader to understanding and healing. Hayden warns, “Self-sabotaging behaviors often lead to stagnancy, poor outcomes and damaged relationships.” I would argue that self-sabotaging damages relationships not only with others but with ourselves and with God as well. “Self-sabotage can be the product of many things, including low self-esteem, internalized beliefs, fear of change or the unknown, or an excessive need for control, experts say. But underneath those reasons is the human drive for self-preservation.”
Hayden quotes author and psychologist Judy Ho, “We are wired to avoid threats and be motivated by rewards. Self-sabotage comes from an imbalance of our threat and reward drives.” The Apostle Peter saw a considerable threat and little reward when he denied Jesus or witnessed the ghostly figures of Moses and Ezekiel. Self-sabotage damages one’s self-worth and produces a fear of success.
The way to build our God-given worth occurs when we challenge our thoughts and actions. Next, God calls each of us to take responsibility for our actions. Mistakes in life are inevitable, and learning to lean on God’s affirmation frees us from falling into despair. Finally, Hayden calls us to “be patient.” God is at work managing our decisions throughout life. When you embrace God’s grace, you can better value yourself and others. Then, self-sabotage declines, and self-awareness leads to self-fulfillment. Embrace God’s grace and mercy, and your heart will follow.