Tag: 1st Peter 4
Rejoice in sufferings for Christ!
Scripture reading for November 11th: 1st Peter 4
Key Scriptures for over-comers: 1st Peter 4:12-17 “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, don not be ashamed but praise God that you bear that Name!”
Peter encouraged believers not to be shocked at the suffering that would come their way because of their faith. This is normal because Jesus Himself suffered. In fact, you are blessed if you suffer for Christ and godly living because the Holy Spirit rests on you. Believers should never be involved in sin and and then call the consequences of that persecution!
Observations for over-comers: Suffering will come to believers living dedicated lives for Christ! “Trouble and distress have come upon me, but Your commands are my delight. Your statutes are forever right; give me understanding that I may live.” (Psalm 119:143-144)
Love each other deeply!
Scripture reading for November 12th: 1st Peter 4
“The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength that God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1st Peter 4:7-11)
Peter, at that time, was convinced that the end of all things was near! That spiritual outlook is healthy for each generation as they await the coming of Jesus Christ. When we live as if Christ could come any time, we look upon prayer as a necessity, not an inconvenience! There are so many people that are needing salvation and only God can draw them! We must appeal to heaven with a clear mind and vision of consequences for those not found in Christ!
Our treatment of others is deeply important to our Lord! Peter encouraged the church to “love each other deeply”! Love covers sin, doesn’t expose and gossip about it! Love offers hospitality and is generous because of Christ’s generosity to us. Love also uses every God-given gift or talent to promote Jesus Christ and His Kingdom so that all may hear and be saved! When we love in these ways, Jesus Christ is praised and receives glory, now and forever!