The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”
Today’s reading is from 1 Peter, chapter 5.
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Our whole culture, and everything in us, fights against suffering. Seeking comfort and avoiding suffering is one of our highest aims. But the Apostle Peter sets a different expectation of suffering for Christians. Peter says that it’s a normal part of our human experience, and as Christians, we should expect that suffering will come our way. We are not to be surprised by or shocked by suffering when it occurs in our lives. What is your reaction to suffering when it happens to you?
Peter says that we should find encouragement in the midst of our own sufferings by considering the sufferings of others around the world, especially those who are suffering because of their faith in Christ. As you listen to the passage again, call to mind someone who has been a model of Christlikeness in the face of suffering.
Peter encourages us by reminding us that, in light of our eternal glory, our suffering will only last a little while. And Christ himself will restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. As we close our time today, can you turn that into a prayer… “Christ, today I pray that you will restore me, make me strong, make me firm, and make me steadfast.”
Lord God, Almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Music: "I Lift My Eyes Up" - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)
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