Matthew 26:51
With that, one of Jesus’ companions reached for his sword, drew it out and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
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John tells us that the “companion” who drew his sword was Peter. He was out numbered and “out gunned” but Peter meant what he had said just a short while ago (verse 35). He really was willing to die for Jesus.

But God’s plan was for Peter to live for Jesus and that proved too hard. He fell asleep when asked to simply “watch and pray”. He fled when his gallant attack with the sword was thwarted by the One he was trying to rescue. He remained at a distance and then denied even knowing the Lord to the point of cursing when a Middle School-aged girl confronted him.

Sadly, I can relate to Peter. Why does it seem easier to do the big things than the little daily obediences? As one who has lived overseas doing missions work, I find it was easier to go across the globe than to go across the street and share with my neighbor. “If I had a million dollars I’d give half to missions” yet the same person doesn’t tithe on what they do have. Would you really give 50% of a million if you won’t give 10% of $500?

As a parent it is nice when your children make some big “sacrifice” to show their love for you but what you really want to see is just the daily obedience in little things. That is what brings joy to your heart and peace to the relationship.

Lord, forgive my desire to do great things for you while ignoring the little things you ask of me – be kind, humble yourself, think of others above yourself, show patience, forgive when attacked.
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1 Samuel 15:22
“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.