Situation Handled

Situation Handled

2 Peter 2: False prophets appeared in the past among the people, and in the same way false teachers will appear among you. They will bring in destructive, untrue doctrines, and will deny the Master who redeemed them, and so they will bring upon themselves sudden destruction. ² Even so, many will follow their immoral ways; and because of what they do, others will speak evil of the Way of truth. ³ In their greed these false teachers will make a profit out of telling you made-up stories. For a long time now their Judge has been ready, and their Destroyer has been wide awake!

 

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After being lied on, I felt worried that people would not be able to believe my side of the story. I laid awake trying to think of ways to make the truth known, I approached someone to ask for advice. “How do I fight this liar?” “You don’t.” was his tough to hear reply. But it was followed by “GOD sees what is going on and HE has the situation under control.”

 

• I wanted to expose the false statements.
• I wanted to be the one to expose the liar.
• I wanted “my” name cleared so I could keep doing what I was doing.

 

Peter begins with a warning to believers that false teachers will slip in amongst them and tell lies for money. Peter may have observed that these slick and polished speakers would be hard to get rid of because they spoke to desperate people who craved their lies. He, himself denied JESUS and witnessed Judas betray HIM. He repented and warned everyone.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s word is precious and pure and should be used to bring people to a saving relationship with HIS SON.
• There will be false teachers who preach for money, who could care less about making up stories to keep the crowd entertained.
• GOD wants me to know HE has the situation under control.

 

Noisy liars seem to get their way. I mean, we see examples of very wealthy people telling lies to keep their profits and maybe even oppress various groups of people. Meanwhile, those in need seem to be in trouble without a way. BUT GOD has “The WAY.”

 

JESUS said, “I AM the way and the truth and the life.” This is the true doctrine to follow. Humans want people to follow false doctrines to amass a great wealth. Unfortunately, people will fall for it. BUT GOD wants you and me to follow HIM. I gladly worship JESUS in Spirit and truth.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer brings up this warning?
• Have you ever been so desperate that you would listen to liars?
• Will you take a moment to see if you are listening to liars and turn to CHRIST who is the truth today?

Trying to Understand Life

Trying to Understand Life

2 Peter 1: ¹⁹ So we are even more confident of the message proclaimed by the prophets. You will do well to pay attention to it, because it is like a lamp shining in a dark place until the Day dawns and the light of the morning star shines in your hearts. ²⁰ Above all else, however, remember that none of us can explain by ourselves a prophecy in the Scriptures. ²¹ For no prophetic message ever came just from the human will, but people were under the control of the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God.

 

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Going through difficult circumstances, I asked GOD “Why?” I did not get an audible answer and wondered if I was being punished or possibly forgotten. But then I read the scriptures and an example in the bible gave me peace that I wasn’t the only one going through difficulty and there is an enemy orchestrating war against believers.

 

• I did not like having to face difficulty again, but I felt inspired by reading the Bible.
• My situation had not changed, but something inside me felt at peace.
• Each word I read changed something inside me.

 

Peter explains that all scripture originated by the HOLY SPIRIT and can only be understood by explanation from the HOLY SPIRIT. He implicitly urged people to believe in CHRIST so they would receive the HOLY SPIRIT who would in turn be a guide to life.

 

My Observations:

• Humans can lie to me to get their own way, BUT GOD gave mankind scripture that revealed HIS love through HIS SON.
• I can believe scripture will guide me in making large and small decisions in life.
• Each example I read in scripture parallels a foundation in scripture.

 

Skeptics would say that scripture was written to enslave people to do work, or that scripture is no longer valid because technology has provided new ways of thinking. BUT GOD is in control and has provided a way to cope with life to this very day.

 

HE spoke to various men and women and had each carefully document their encounter with GOD. As unbelievable as each encounter was, there were several people who were eyewitnesses to the experiences. These experiences still hold true to this very day and can provide me with direction to keep moving forward. I am glad GOD said “I will never leave you nor forsake you, because I can hold onto this truth in the middle of a storm.

 

Challenge

• What gave the writer confidence?
• Have you ever wanted to ask GOD “Why?”
• Will you “lean not unto your own understanding” and allow the HOLY SPIRIT to guide you through the difficult time so you can give GOD the praise HE deserves today?

Approved

Approved

2 Peter 1: ¹⁶ We have not depended on made-up stories in making known to you the mighty coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. With our own eyes we saw his greatness. ¹⁷ We were there when he was given honor and glory by God the Father, when the voice came to him from the Supreme Glory, saying, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased!” ¹⁸ We ourselves heard this voice coming from heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain.

 

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“How will I know the person I am meeting?” I asked. The response was a description of the person followed by “he will be looking for you.” When I arrived, I could see a few people who could possibly fit the description, but he saw me looking and waved, as if to say “It’s me!”

 

• I needed to know the right person I was meeting.
• I needed a clear description of the one I was looking for.
• I needed someone to tell me “this is the one you are looking for.”

 

Peter, in his first letter, praises the people who sought after JESUS without ever seeing HIM. But in this letter he describes JESUS as the ONE everyone is looking for. He goes into detail about seeing JESUS and hearing GOD’s approval. He may have said this because he knew about false prophets who claimed to be the Messiah.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS is the only being who GOD approved in front of many witnesses.
• GOD revealed JESUS to many people so there would not be any confusion as to who to follow.
• Witnesses were at the scene to help other people know who to follow.

 

Knowing who to follow is hard these days. I mean, anyone with a camera and a mouth can develop a relative truth to gain followers. This action requires no verification and feels good to the individual when the “like” or “subscribe” button is pressed. BUT GOD did something different with JESUS.

 

HE approved JESUS in front of many witnesses, letting everyone know who to follow. HE approved what JESUS did so false prophets would be revealed and the truth be shown. I am glad JESUS was revealed and I give HIM all the glory!

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer go to great lengths to explain being a witness to JESUS?
• Have you ever been an eyewitness to something that needed clarification?
• Will you increase your faith in JESUS by believing HE is the ONE you need to follow without any doubt today?

Legacy of Purpose

Legacy of Purpose

2 Peter 1: ¹² And so I will always remind you of these matters, even though you already know them and are firmly grounded in the truth you have received. ¹³ I think it only right for me to stir up your memory of these matters as long as I am still alive. ¹⁴ I know that I shall soon put off this mortal body, as our Lord Jesus Christ plainly told me. ¹⁵ I will do my best, then, to provide a way for you to remember these matters at all times after my death.

 

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“What would you do differently if you knew you were going to die in the next two weeks?” was the poignant question posed to us at the Promise Keeper’s conference. I really hadn’t thought of that, but after pondering I realized I would love more, spread the Gospel more and praise more. The next statement was the game changer. “Then why don’t you start doing this right now.”

 

• I wanted conditions to be perfect for me to do what I should have been doing all along.
• I felt bad that I could not blame anyone but myself for not doing the things I should have been doing.
• I realized then, that I need to make a change in my life that would actively include GOD’s love spread to my family, friends and strangers.

 

Peter got some startling news directly from JESUS. After leaving the ministry, Peter went back to fishing. JESUS appeared to the disciples in a miraculous encounter. HE told Peter about his death after reinstating him in the ministry. Peter, from then on, spoke boldly about JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• People are important, BUT GOD is most important.
• Being busy doing life is okay, but following GOD is the ultimate.
• Working hard to stay alive and healthy is not bad, but showing people the way to believe in GOD is the pinnacle of existence.

 

Selfish people redefine what is important. I mean, when people ask the question “What would you like to be known by?” they may answer by saying “Money” or “Fame” or “Acquiescing to selfish needs of greedy people.” They may not come out directly and say those things, but it may be at the heart of the matter. GOD wants something different.

 

Each and every day, GOD wants HIS people to remember JESUS. HIS death and resurrection is the most important event that ever happened to mankind. All GOD wants us to do is to love one another so people would turn their eyes to HIM. I gladly leave a legacy of spreading JESUS as the most important gift I could give my family, friends and strangers.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is the writer’s definition of being “firmly grounded in the truth?”
• Have you examined your life’s purpose to see if it includes what GOD wants you to do?
• Will you live your life with GOD’s purpose from this day forth so you can be used to being many people to HIM from now on?

 

Permanent Experience

Permanent Experience

2 Peter 1: ¹⁰ So then, my friends, try even harder to make God's call and his choice of you a permanent experience; if you do so, you will never abandon your faith. ¹¹ In this way you will be given the full right to enter the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

 

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Not sure that I wanted to be part of the organization, I went to the first meeting with skepticism. I sat through the presentation and they said I would need to meet twice a month, at night and sometimes on weekends. I could not commit the time.

 

• I wanted to simply be part of the organization without committing to it.
• I wanted to use the name of the organization but did not want to do all the work they wanted me to do.
• I wanted the temporary prestige of the organization without a permanent mindset.

 

Peter discussed something he failed at. He may have saw people wavering in their faith, so he provided a choice to follow GOD permanently or to stop faking it by being willing to abandon the faith. He denied JESUS and felt embarrassed. After JESUS restored Peter, he was able to preach about JESUS without abandoning his faith.

 

My Observations:

• When GOD chose to save me, it was eternal.
• GOD wants me to value my relationship with HIM and not be willing to leave HIM easily.
• Roadblocks, obstacles and hurdles will appear in life, BUT GOD wants me to keep my faith focused on HIM.

 

Many times I felt like giving up. I mean, it seems like trouble comes at inconvenient times when I am not ready. People get sick and hurt, stuff breaks and bank accounts dry up seemingly all at the same time. The first thought is to sin my way out of the trouble, but then I would end up in a worse situation. GOD has another way.

 

HE wants me to follow the example JESUS set. JESUS did not waver in HIS faith. HE stayed focus on HIS mission to die for the sins of mankind. HE wants me to live my life the same way as HE did. I have a choice to remain faithful to GOD or abandon HIM and follow my own path. I gladly choose GOD over my own choices.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer tell everyone to “try harder?”
• Have you ever felt like giving up because something did not happen in the time you expected?
• Have you considered abandoning your faith in GOD because things aren’t going as you expected?
• Will you consider making your relationship a “permanent experience” by letting go of this particular worry so you can praise GOD today?

Active and Effective

Active and Effective

2 Peter 1: ⁵ For this very reason do your best to add goodness to your faith; to your goodness add knowledge; ⁶ to your knowledge add self-control; to your self-control add endurance; to your endurance add godliness; ⁷ to your godliness add Christian affection; and to your Christian affection add love. ⁸ These are the qualities you need, and if you have them in abundance, they will make you active and effective in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. ⁹ But if you do not have them, you are so shortsighted that you cannot see and have forgotten that you have been purified from your past sins.

 

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After learning the basics I felt pretty good about myself. It was very hard to get over the hump of learning the basics and I felt I deserved to remain right where I was. “Now we want you to learn this other thing” was the challenging statement.

 

• I was worn out just learning the basics.
• I did not think I needed to go any further than the basics.
• I felt I was doing enough by simply doing the basics.

 

Peter challenges believers to go further than “faith” in JESUS. He may have seen behaviors that seemed childish when it came to spiritual growth. His challenge was to add goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, Christian affection and love. He also challenged everyone to be “active and effective.”

 

My Observations:

• Accepting JESUS as my Savior was the beginning of my faith.
• GOD wants me to grow up by adding goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, Christian affection and love.
• GOD also wants me to not think more highly of myself so I can point people to HIM for the remainder of my life.

 

Wanting to feel like I have arrived is a problem. I mean, instead of reaching a point, in my walk with GOD, that I think I have done enough and learned enough and I can just coast; I should constantly look for ways to grow in the LORD.

 

GOD expects HIS children to grow. HE knows the huge responsibility that is out in the world and HE needs people who are willing to do more than the basics of belief in JESUS. HE wants “Active and Effective” believers to seek HIS kingdom. I am willing to grow in the LORD by adding these things.

 

Challenge

• What is the opposite of the writer’s appeal to be “Active and Effective?”
• Have you ever thought you have arrived with CHRIST?
• Will you continue to grow spiritually so you can be “Active and Effective” in growing GOD’s kingdom today?

Gifts Used to Escape

Gifts Used to Escape

2 Peter 1: ³ God's divine power has given us everything we need to live a truly religious life through our knowledge of the one who called us to share in his own glory and goodness. ⁴ In this way he has given us the very great and precious gifts he promised, so that by means of these gifts you may escape from the destructive lust that is in the world, and may come to share the divine nature. 

 

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Hearing conversations about expensive houses, cars and luxurious vacations, I decided to spend my time and energy acquiring “the dream.” After climbing the ladder, I reached “the top” only to realize I had been trapped in high pressure, broken relationships and impressing pain on others.

 

• I had talents that I was not using to grow GOD’s kingdom, rather I was put in a position to harm it.
• I had gifts that GOD gave me that I was using for someone else’s gain.
• I ignored GOD and put HIM in a box that I would open for an hour or two each Sunday.

 

Peter goes right into deep theology by saying “GOD has given us everything we need.” His statement suggests, that we already have the ability to live for GOD. It also suggests that we have a choice to live for GOD or to live life in pursuit of the world’s “destructive lust.”

 

My Observations:

• The worst kind of lust is the one that everyone says “this is what you are supposed to pursue.”
• Seeing GOD as the enemy to my pleasure can cause me to use my gifts and talents for my own pursuits.
• GOD has given me everything I need to be successful in HIS eyes, I only have to use what HE gave me for HIS purpose.

 

Images of the world’s success makes me lust over what it has to offer. I mean, seeing movies where the star steps off of his or her own private jet after drinking the most expensive champagne and arriving in a chauffeur driven car to take him or her to a luxury home, makes me say “why don’t I have that?” BUT GOD wants HIS SON to be known and followed.

 

These two thoughts conflict. I stop following GOD to follow human stories of “success.” I mimic celebrities in hopes of being discovered. BUT GOD takes me off the lustful path and places me on a road that is traveled less. HE shows me how important it is to take the Gospel to the world, in hopes that HIS message will not be rejected. I gladly use my gifts for JESUS, who gave them to me in the first place.

 

Challenge

• What “destructive lust” is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever fallen into the trap of “everyone else is doing it?”
• Will you use your GOD given gifts and talents to grow HIS kingdom, instead of growing your own today?

Grace and Peace

Grace and Peace

2 Peter 1: From Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ—

To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have been given a faith as precious as ours:

² May grace and peace be yours in full measure through your knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

 

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After leaving court, I got my driver’s license back. I had exceeded the maximum number of speeding tickets that year and had to get my license reinstated. Since that pressure was over, I decided to celebrate. I threw the usual party and made the theme, “Able to Drive Again!”

 

• I made any excuse to hold a party.
• Having a group of people with loud music, laughter and drinks, temporarily reduced the pain of reality.
• Monday would arrive every week and I had to face whatever situation I was trying to escape from.

 

Peter writes another letter. This time he addressed it to a broader audience of believers which included Gentile believers. His opening statement was a small prayer for everyone to receive grace and peace in “full measure.”

 

My Observations:

• My sinful efforts bring temporary relief, BUT knowing GOD gives me peace that I don’t understand.
• Vacations, celebrations, and parties seem like a nice escape, BUT knowing JESUS  gives me grace that sustains me during difficult times.
• Getting to know about GOD and the SON of GOD is worth the work, because it shows me grace and peace that is different than the world’s temporary, pleasure filled approach.

 

Indulgence is temporary, BUT GOD is forever. I mean, avoiding the “bad” situation for a moment of pleasure can sometimes make things worse for me. Bad decision after bad decision during my pursuit of pleasure can sometimes leave me with more problems that pleasure can’t fix. BUT GOD has a different way.

 

GOD wants me to get to know who HE is so I will not fall into a trap of blaming HIM or misunderstanding who HE is. Getting to know about JESUS shows me how much I a really loved. I am glad I can receive grace and peace in spite of my bad thoughts of who GOD is. I receive HIS love by learning about HIM.

 

Challenge

• What sticks out to you in the writer’s greeting?
• Are you trying to pursue grace and peace through the world’s methods?
• Will you pursue a relationship with JESUS by getting to know HIM so you can receive grace and peace that rises above all of your situations today?

Needed Encouragement

Needed Encouragement

1 Peter 5: ¹² I write you this brief letter with the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful Christian. I want to encourage you and give my testimony that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.

 

¹³ Your sister church in Babylon, also chosen by God, sends you greetings, and so does my son Mark. ¹⁴ Greet one another with the kiss of Christian love.

May peace be with all of you who belong to Christ.

 

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After the car crash, I wondered if GOD was in my corner. I questioned HIS every move. Months later, bills poured in and the school dean had some bad news for me. I sat on a bench with a worried look on my face. A guy said to me “GOD loves you.”

 

• I wasn’t feeling loved because I had many problems.
• I didn’t want to hear that GOD loved me when I had so many problems.
• After hearing that GOD loved me, I turned to prayer for the first time in a long time and things got better.

 

Peter, with the help of Silas, concludes his letter to those who were suffering because of their belief in JESUS. Church leaders as well as Roman leaders, were persecuting believers because they were perceived as a threat to the government and the church. Through all the problems they faced, Petr wanted to encourage them.

 

My Observations:

• My problems can make me blind to other people having problems.
• GOD gives me resilience by telling me I will face persecution while I am on this earth.
• My eyes need to be opened to the need for encouragement.

 

Be encouraged because GOD sees you and hears you and wants you to have peace today. But what about this problem or that problem? GOD sees “you” and hears “you” and want “you” to have peace today.

 

In the middle of your storm, GOD is there. HE see what you are going through and has calculated it all in HIS plan for you. This plan is not to harm you, rather it will prosper you. I am glad GOD has a plan for peace for you and me.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer close the letter with a prayer of peace?
• Have you ever scoffed at the statement “GOD loves you” because you were too worried to hear it?
• Will you turn to GOD for HIS answers so you can hear words of encouragement today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please guide this reader to YOUR peace which may come in the middle of his or her problems. Give him or her a new mindset that releases YOUR resilience and protects those who love YOU. amen

Apron of Humility

Apron of Humility

1 Peter 5: ⁵ In the same way you younger people must submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you must put on the apron of humility, to serve one another; for the scripture says, “God resists the proud, but shows favor to the humble.” ⁶ Humble yourselves, then, under God's mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. ⁷ Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.

 

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“You are pretty good at this” were the words I loved to hear. I became more confident and took on more and more challenges. Soon I was “very good” in my own mind and wanted to make some demands or even leave for something better. After applying outside and not getting the position I had to tone down my demands.

 

• I had become demanding.
• I had become a bit arrogant.
• I had forgotten that I knew nothing when I first started out.

 

Peter turns to new believers to provide advice to them. They may have desired a higher position within serving, so he suggests taking a humble approach. He implied having patience by saying “HE will lift you up in HIS own good time.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD resists my pride, but shows me favor when I humble myself.
• GOD changes my heart when I practice serving others.
• GOD raises me up in HIS time, not mine.

 

Demanding that GOD “make me a leader right here and now” could come from a wrong heart. I mean, I may want to be a leader so “I” can take on the challenges I see fit. When I run into issues, I can simply call on GOD to beat up my enemies and fix all my problems. Unfortunately, HE doesn’t seem to work that way.

 

HE sees my heart and if it is full of pride, resists my efforts. But when I humble myself and ask HIM, “Is this wat YOU want?”, HE gets excited. HE then tells me to “leave all my worries with HIM” because HE cares for me. I am glad GOD takes care of me and raises me up in HIS time.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer emphasize serving one another?
• Have you ever thought you would do a better job than your leaders?
• Will you examine yourself to see if there are any opportunities to wear the “apron of humility” by following those put in leadership, whether you agree with HIS leadership appointment or not?

Willing Leader

Willing Leader

1 Peter 5: I, who am an elder myself, appeal to the church elders among you. I am a witness of Christ's sufferings, and I will share in the glory that will be revealed. I appeal to you ² to be shepherds of the flock that God gave you and to take care of it willingly, as God wants you to, and not unwillingly. Do your work, not for mere pay, but from a real desire to serve. ³ Do not try to rule over those who have been put in your care, but be examples to the flock. ⁴ And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the glorious crown which will never lose its brightness.

 

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“We’re giving you a couple of people to manage” were the exciting words I wanted to hear in my young career. I did so with vim and vigor! But over time I got more and more responsibility. Soon I had an entire department. “Do you want more people?” they asked. I was reluctant.

 

• I knew how difficult it was to manage people.
• I knew the troubles I would face because I had led people for years.
• Leadership was not what I thought it would be.

 

Peter appealed to church elders, or leaders within a given gathering of believers of JESUS. He gave his personal testimony of how he witnessed the sufferings of CHRIST. He also told everyone that he would share in the glory once JESUS returns. But then he turns to an appeal to “willingly” be a servant leader. He probably did this because he knew how hard leadership was.

 

My Observations:

• GOD wants me to willingly lead selfish, unruly people to a place of peace.
• GOD wants me to humble myself to be a servant leader.
• JESUS is the “Chief Shepherd” who will give me a crown that will not lose its brightness.

 

Many people think leadership is easy until he or she has to do so. I mean, I had plenty of complaints about what leaders were doing or not doing, until I had to be one. Then I realized, I could not be all things to all people. What was I to do? GOD had a remedy.

 

HE placed me and other leaders on a path that serves others. This is a different leadership style that leverages influence over coercion. Servant leaders wants people to grow up to become servant leaders so they provide the example of how to follow CHRIST to the best of his or her abilities. I am glad GOD gives me a flock to serve.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer appeal to the church elders to lead “willingly?”
• Have you ever worked for someone who hated his or her job?
• If you are in leadership for CHRIST, will you consider “willingly” serving those who may be difficult to serve so they can see your example and turn to CHRIST someday?

Committed

Committed

1 Peter 4: ¹⁷ The time has come for judgment to begin, and God's own people are the first to be judged. If it starts with us, how will it end with those who do not believe the Good News from God? ¹⁸ As the scripture says,

 

“It is difficult for good people to be saved;
    what, then, will become of godless sinners?”

 

¹⁹ So then, those who suffer because it is God's will for them, should by their good actions trust themselves completely to their Creator, who always keeps his promise.

 

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Noticing that it was brighter than usual at that time of day, I looked outside only to see deep snow. I had to get to school, so I got dressed warm enough to face the cold. I waited on the bus for a while, but noticed it was not anywhere in sight. I walked to the next stop which was one mile away. The next three busses were late and packed. I arrived to school only to find out all schools in the city had been closed.

 

• It was very hard to get to school that day.
• Every part of the trip provided another reason to give up.
• I felt like saying “You got to be kidding me!” but simply turned around and reversed the tumultuous trip.

 

Peter discussed GOD’s judgment as it relates to suffering Christians. He seemed to attempt to provide some straight talk to believers by quoting Solomon saying it is difficult for good people to be saved. He then acknowledges the difficulty and suggests that people who suffer because they follow the will of GOD, should be committed to keep going.

 

My Observations:

• When GOD makes a promise, HE never, ever stops until HE keeps it.
• I can place my total trust in GOD because HE keeps HIS promises.
• My attempts to “do good” should continue, no matter how difficult the trip may be.

 

Belief in CHRIST is easy, but living for CHRIST can be difficult. I mean, the world presents itself in ways that seem okay. It’s okay to lie a little, get drunk a little, lust a little and be selfish a little, as long as it’s done in moderation. BUT GOD’s standard is compromised by this approach.

 

The other extreme is to follow the rules so strictly that fruit is not bared. GOD knows I a a sinner saved by HIS grace. Only through belief in perfection, namely JESUS, can I be saved. By siding with JESUS, I pick a fight with Satan, who in turn, wants me to quit talking about JESUS. I am glad GOD has given me and you purpose, even though it can be difficult at times.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention how difficult being a Christian can be?
• Do you think everything should go your way all the time?
• Do you believe there is an enemy to JESUS who wants to stop you at all costs?
• Will you “trust” yourself to GOD by being committed to doing the good deed HE wants you to do today, no matter what the obstacle looks like?

New Mindset Towards Insults

New Mindset Towards Insults

1 Peter 4: ¹² My dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful test you are suffering, as though something unusual were happening to you. ¹³ Rather be glad that you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may be full of joy when his glory is revealed. ¹⁴ Happy are you if you are insulted because you are Christ's followers; this means that the glorious Spirit, the Spirit of God, is resting on you. ¹⁵ If you suffer, it must not be because you are a murderer or a thief or a criminal or a meddler in other people's affairs. ¹⁶ However, if you suffer because you are a Christian, don't be ashamed of it, but thank God that you bear Christ's name.

 

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“Four eyes!” was the insult hurled at me that sent me crying. I could no longer play with my blocks. This insult was about my new glasses. I was the only one in my classroom with glasses. The teacher pulled me to the side and taught me this saying “Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me.” I tried it and it worked! That is until I became an adult.

 

• I was taught at a young age to ignore insults.
• A new mindset towards insults was given to me so I could handle when people tried to be mean.
• Realizing that insults are meant to hurt people reminds me to stay away from using them, even passively.

 

Peter provides a perspective on suffering. He went through fear, doubt and denial of JESUS. When JESUS restored HIM as a true follower, Peter preached with passion. He knew that church leaders would be jealous and would persecute him and anyone who believed in JESUS. Peter gave them a new mindset towards insults.

 

My Observations:

• Resilience starts with me knowing I can be slandered and insulted, simply because I believe in JESUS as my Savior.
• Resilience requires that I have a new mindset towards insults where I should expect them.
• Resilience makes me stronger because I know I am on the right track when I am insulted, slandered and debased for my relationship with CHRIST.

 

Insults sting for a moment. I mean, when someone passionately calls me a name, even though it may be false, I sometimes can feel the sharpness of the word. But it is not the insult that is the problem, it is how I respond.

 

GOD expects me to “Love one another” even when insulted by him or her. HE loves when I am thankful with a clear conscience. HE sees those who use insults, passive or aggressive, and owns vengeance. HE simply wants me to live above insults and walk in JESUS’ footsteps. I am glad GOD gives me a path that helps me not internalize insults.

 

Challenge

• What mindset is the writer presenting?
• Have you ever be insulted and knew the insult was false, but it hurt anyway?
• Will you adopt a new mindset, knowing you will be insulted because of your relationship with JESUS?

Love Cover

Love Cover

1 Peter 4: ⁷ The end of all things is near. You must be self-controlled and alert, to be able to pray. ⁸ Above everything, love one another earnestly, because love covers over many sins. ⁹ Open your homes to each other without complaining. ¹⁰ Each one, as a good manager of God's different gifts, must use for the good of others the special gift he has received from God. ¹¹ Those who preach must preach God's messages; those who serve must serve with the strength that God gives them, so that in all things praise may be given to God through Jesus Christ, to whom belong glory and power forever and ever. Amen.

 

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Tired of living a lie, I decided to tell the truth. I did not have much work experience and I lied to a person about my age so perhaps, I could gain more respect. But that would lead to other lies that I could not back up. I told the truth and the person said. “I knew how old you are and I want you on my team. I appreciate you telling me the truth”

 

• My lie was excused.
• My lie was noticed and addressed.
• My lie was forgiven, but I could not move forward on the path of lying.

 

Peter continues with some deep doctrine, but makes it practical. He starts off with a very shocking statement, “The end of all things is near.” JESUS had fulfilled all of the prophecies and there was none left, other than the statement that JESUS would return. Until then, Peter provides a practical approach to living.

 

My Observations

• Approaching family, friends, neighbors and acquaintances with love covers my sins and theirs.
• Opening up my home to help people should be done without me complaining.
• Leveraging the “special gift” GOD has given me should be used for the good of others.

 

Sin causes problems in my life. I mean, when I lied, cheated and stole, I did not get far. In fact I found myself with more problems that required more lying, cheating and stealing. I needed help. Fortunately for me, JESUS covered my sins. Like a heavy cover over a flame, the sting of sin is doused out by the shed blood of JESUS.

 

Since I believe in HIM being raised from the dead, I am saved from eternal separation from GOD’s love. This is Good News! I can now use my GOD given gifts to speak about GOD and live for HIM with excitement and power. I praise GOD in all thing.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention being “self-controlled and alert?”
• Have you ever gotten so worried that you were unable to pray?
• Will you relook at your current situation with love to see where you can cover for someone or where you need to be covered?
• Will you praise GOD after showing love today?

Give an Account

 

Give an Account

1 Peter 4:  ⁵ But they will have to give an account of themselves to God, who is ready to judge the living and the dead. ⁶ That is why the Good News was preached also to the dead, to those who had been judged in their physical existence as everyone is judged; it was preached to them so that in their spiritual existence they may live as God lives.

 

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After I woke up, I realized that an hour had passed. The supervisor came by and asked “What have you been doing during this time?” I was supposed to be counting surveys, but the job was repetitious and boring. “I don’t know” was my childish reply.

 

• I didn’t do what I was supposed to be doing.
• I wasted my time sleeping.
• I had to give an account for what I was supposed to be doing.

 

Peter continues his theological explanation by stating why JESUS spoke to those who died without believing in HIM for salvation. Their spiritual existence is permanent so, unfortunately, their judgment is also permanent and eternal. After physical death, those who did not believe in JESUS will be judged.

 

My Observations:

• Salvation through JESUS is necessary for my current life.
• GOD wants all believers to spread the Gospel to everyone so that all may be saved.
• Those who reject the message of JESUS, unfortunately will not be saved.

 

Each of us has to give an account for our short time on earth. I mean, at some point I will stand in front of GOD and have HIM ask me “What did you do with your time on earth?” or HE will tell me “This is what you spent your time on earth.” Either way, I have to give an account for what is important to HIM, namely spreading the Gospel of HIS SON.

 

JESUS became a human to be murdered by HIS creation. HE was raised from the dead, showing GOD has all power over life and death. JESUS now rules at the right hand of GOD and they are waiting for the last person to accept HIM as Savior. I am glad GOD includes me in HIS plan to reach people with the Gospel.

 

Challenge

• What account is the writer speaking about?
• Have you ever looked at your time to assess how much of it you are giving to GOD?
• Will you give more time to GOD during the week to intentionally spread the Gospel of JESUS today?

Life in Control

Life in Control

1 Peter 4: Since Christ suffered physically, you too must strengthen yourselves with the same way of thinking that he had; because whoever suffers physically is no longer involved with sin. ² From now on, then, you must live the rest of your earthly lives controlled by God's will and not by human desires. ³ You have spent enough time in the past doing what the heathen like to do. Your lives were spent in indecency, lust, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and the disgusting worship of idols. ⁴ And now the heathen are surprised when you do not join them in the same wild and reckless living, and so they insult you. 

 

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After the party, I found a person passed out on my roommate’s floor. She had wandered into his room, missed the bed and fell on the floor. To make matters worse, she threw up under his bed. “Ugh!!” I screamed.

 

• I was getting tired of the temporary pleasure of partying.
• I was getting tired of the consequences of the way I was living.
• I was getting tired of my life being out of control and hinging out with people whose lives were just as out of control as mine.

 

Peter gives advice to those who believe in JESUS to “strengthen yourselves.” He observed that people were being beaten and jailed simply because they believed in CHRIST. He may have known that some would turn to some ways to get temporary relief from the world’s pressures by using the world’s pleasures for escape.

 

My Observations:

• My mindset has to be changed to follow CHRIST when times get hard.
• I need to follow CHRIST’s example and live a controlled life.
• I should expect people to insult me because I choose to live for CHRIST.

 

Being in control of my life seems hard. I mean, the world offers pleasures that appeal to the body physically. Sex, drugs, and alcohol seem to top the list of temporary problem solvers, with materialism creeping in as well. GOD wants me to act different.

 

HE knows the pleasures of this world will only distract me from focusing on HIM. HE provides a way for me to gain control of my out of control life. HE provides the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me and you because of our belief in JESUS. I am glad GOD gives me a second chance daily.

 

Challenge

• What changes does the writer recommend?
• Have you ever gotten caught up in some of the world’s pleasures that you felt were wrong at first?
• Will you ask GOD for help getting self-control regardless of what people think of you today?

Water Symbol

Water Symbol

¹⁸ For Christ died for sins once and for all, a good man on behalf of sinners, in order to lead you to God. He was put to death physically, but made alive spiritually, ¹⁹ and in his spiritual existence he went and preached to the imprisoned spirits. ²⁰ These were the spirits of those who had not obeyed God when he waited patiently during the days that Noah was building his boat. The few people in the boat—eight in all—were saved by the water, ²¹ which was a symbol pointing to baptism, which now saves you. It is not the washing off of bodily dirt, but the promise made to God from a good conscience. It saves you through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, ²² who has gone to heaven and is at the right side of God, ruling over all angels and heavenly authorities and powers.

 

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“Put this tee shirt on” was the statement from the group I volunteered for the day. It had the name of the organization and their slogan. When we were working together, everyone could tell we were all part of a group.

 

• My shirt told others I belonged with the group.
• I wore the shirt without shame.
• While I wore the shirt, I was supposed to be doing what the group was doing.

 

Peter goes into some heavy theology as guided by the HOLY SPIRIT. He explained that JESUS, the only sinless human, died and was raised from the dead to save anyone who would believe in HIM. He then compared Noah’s family being saved to baptism. Both events are symbolic to the salvation through the resurrection of JESUS. Both events required faith and belief.

 

My Observations:

• Just like Noah, who completed his task of building an ark all his life, GOD wants me to be steadfast and not give up.
• Just like water baptism in front of people, GOD wants me to declare my relationship with HIM versus hiding it at convenient times.
• Just like showing up to work, GOD wants me to hold up my end of the promise by living for HIM and keeping a “good conscience.”

 

Living for GOD can be hard these days. I mean, the symbols can be twisted from love to hatred. Some godly symbols can be misunderstood or even thrown in the dirt. BUT GOD is above any symbol.

 

HE got excited when I chose to be baptized because I declared to the world that I belong to HIM. Now HE wants me to wear HIS clothing for all to see. Meanwhile, JESUS is on the throne ruling over all authorities. I am glad I will one day see HIM through cleaned eyes.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention baptism?
• Have you ever tried to hide your relationship with GOD in order to gain something from people?
• If you are hiding your relationship with JESUS, will you unhide it little by little to save those around you today?