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December 20th

The bible reading today is in the book of 1 Peter. Yes, all five chapters...but it’s worth the read.

The apostle Peter wrote to a group of disciples, Jews, and Gentiles, scattered through the northern mountain ranges of Asia...modern-day Turkey.

Peter wrote quite a lot about persecution aimed at Christians. By tradition, Peter spent his final years ministering in and around Rome. More than likely, Peter wrote his epistles from Rome just before Nero began all-out destruction of Christianity, including mass murdering of the followers of the way.

Peter wrote a message preparing the believers for suffering.

“For this is a gracious thing, when mindful of God...what is?...suffering unjustly just as the savior suffered for you and me without bitterness...that is a thing only accomplished by the grace of God...pray for it...

What is that gracious thing? It’s when a believer endures sorrows while suffering unjustly.

For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a “gracious thing” in the sight of God.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:19-20‬

Some have called this letter of Peter the “Job” of the new testament. Like Job, Peter, and the disciples that he sent the letter to would experience much suffering. They must see the hand of God in the suffering. God is up to something in the midst of unjust persecution. It would be a time for grace to be given by God to the humble sufferers.

For three years, Peter lived in close proximity to Jesus....as a member of the twelve apostles. He saw first hand what it looked like to live by grace in the midst of a hostile world. He saw Jesus berated and betrayed with false and hateful words. He saw Jesus denied by friends in His darkest hours. He saw Jesus threatened and beaten and crucified falsely.

Peter saw Jesus suffer physically and spiritually as he took on sin and satan and death. And he saw Jesus win by the grace of the Father. He saw Jesus win through sacrifice and forgiveness.

Peter knew what the Spirit was communicating to these who others called, exiles and aliens. Suffering was coming. But there was...The Way to endure and win...Jesus...who is indeed everything they/we need!

And Peter by the Spirit continues...“But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, “you will be blessed”.

Think on this friends...The Holy Spirit through Peter was promising benefits from heaven to earth for any believer suffering for doing God’s will. So awesome!

Peter continues...Have no fear of the persecutors, nor be troubled, Be courageous in your hour of fear...

Moses told Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous...and do fear what oppressors might do to you...for the Lord your God goes with you, never to leave you nor forsake you.” By the way...this verse was highlighted in my Grandson Warren’s bible and in his spiritual journal...it became our rallying cry as we said good by to him 6 years ago...and it’s the first word from God to us when life gets hard...Thank you, Warren.

And Peter continues..."But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, In your hearts see Jesus and honor him in life and death...the one who makes both eternal Gain for us who believe. Always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; with gentleness and respect,”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭3:14-15‬

O Lord make us ready for every good work and witness...especially in our hours of darkness and suffering...may our testimonies be of you and your faithfulness to persevere with us!

Have a great day