In Matthew 26, Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (v. 15), Peter, James, and John failed to watch and pray with Him (vv. 36-45), the disciples deserted Him and fled (v. 56), and Peter disowned and denied Him three times (vv. 69-75). These unsettling events are reminders that even the most committed followers of Jesus have the capacity to fail Him. As Jesus said in verse 41, "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."
In almost every situation we are told that the outcome of failing Jesus was shame and regret. Peter's denials caused him to weep bitterly and Judas was so wrought with remorse over his betrayal of Jesus that he took his own life. Hebrews 12:16-17 reminds us of the Old Testament account of Esau, who sold his birthright for a plate of food and then later, when he desired a blessing, was denied even though he sought it through tears - an account that symbolizes just how little it takes for one to reject the Savior and the subsequent consequences.
What are our own turning points? What does it take for us to betray, desert, disown, deny, or otherwise fail Jesus? It's easy to say, "I would never do such a thing." That's what Peter thought too when he told Jesus, "Even if all fall away, I never will." Although we may not always fail Jesus outwardly or blatantly, could there be more subtle ways that we distance ourselves from Him or let Him down? How many times have I turned my back on Him, ignored His pleas to fellowship with me, disobeyed His commands, or brushed aside the still, small voice of His Spirit speaking to my conscience as I deliberately joined myself with some form of ungodliness or unrighteousness?
"Father, forgive me when I turn away from Jesus and strain my relationship with the very One Who gave His life for me. Help me in my human frailty. Help me to not cheapen or trivialize my birthright in Christ or to devalue the eternal blessings and promises that are found only in Him. By Your Spirit, enable me to remain steadfast and true. Amen."