It’s always nice to know that other people are praying for you. But what about having Jesus Himself pray for you?

“I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail,” Jesus told Peter in Luke 22:32.  What amazing words from the Son of God to one of His dear chosen friends. A friend who Jesus knew, in a matter of hours, would reject Him and deny knowing Him. Not once, but three times.

Jesus was aware of the spiritual battle going on. He told Peter that Satan was fighting to destroy his faith. He knew that Peter had weaknesses and was about to falter and fail. And so He lifted him up to the Father and prayed for him.

The best news is that this is not just for Peter. Jesus is praying for US, in the trials of our daily lives, and for our own wavering faith.

Romans 8:34 tells us, “Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”

And Hebrews 7:25: “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.”

Sometimes we don’t know how to pray. Sometimes we don’t know what to pray. Sometimes the enemy attacks and our faith is shaky and unstable. But when this happens, Jesus Himself intercedes for us! I don’t know of anything more reassuring than to know that my faith is protected by the Son of God.

After Jesus assured Peter of His prayers, he added a very important calling: “And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”

Peter’s betrayal of Jesus is not the end of the story. After his faith had been tested and tried, and after it had been found true, he would be used in mighty ways, and would be instrumental in starting the very first church. Because of his faith, Peter would boldly stand up and preach at Pentecost and three thousand people would turn to Christ. Because of his faith, Gentiles would hear the gospel message and come to find salvation. Because of his faith, the good news of the Savior would be spread throughout the region. Instead of denying Jesus, Peter would proclaim His Name with confidence and courage.

The same calling is to us! When our faith has been tried and strengthened, we must in turn strengthen those around us. When we battle and we overcome, we have a purpose: to help and encourage and build up others. What a comfort to know that Jesus is interceding for us and upholding our faith. Now…what will we do with that?