In Matthew 26:33–35, Jesus responded to Peter’s boast that he would never abandon his leader, even if everyone else did. Rather than commending Peter for his allegiance, Jesus pointed out that he would succumb to the pressure and noted how severe that failure would be. Jesus understood Peter’s self-assertive personality—his reckless abandon that hadn’t yet been transformed into a selfless, committed pursuit of the truth. Peter had to fail miserably for his own sake. Jesus knew this experience would shape his leadership in the years to come. Peter would learn to forgive himself and help others fail forward. Jesus informed all the disciples that they would fall away on account of him. Despite their defeat, however, Jesus noted that he would be waiting for them in Galilee, having gone on before them. He gave them a future point of reference—a spark of assurance that their relationship would be restored.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

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KEY QUESTIONS: How can I help others to see or understand their personality defects without discouraging them ? When should I prevent others from hurting themselves and when should I allow them to fail forward?