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The account of Peter's denial of Jesus is one of the most poignant in the Bible. But imagine how different the story would be if Peter, instead of breaking down in remorse, had gotten defensive. Suppose, instead of weeping, he had blustered, "What are you looking at me like that for? Anybody else would have done the same thing. And besides, I didn't really mean it."

Some of us have difficulty admitting when we're wrong. If we feel wretched over what we've done, we cover it up; we don't want to make ourselves vulnerable, especially to someone who might be out for revenge. But self-protection won't heal the hurts we cause, and defensiveness only puts up more walls.

If you're truly sick at heart over hurting someone, let the person see your grief. You'll have taken the first step to restoring a healthy relationship. (See also Psalm 51; Luke 19:1-10.)

Good Words to Remember:
Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times." So Peter went out and wept bitterly. Luke 22:61, 62

Today's Challenge:
When you hurt someone, do you tend to admit it, or do you try to cover it up? What's the result?

Copyright © 2001 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.

Bible Studies to Help You Go Deeper