Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 1:2, NIV- “who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.”
I must admit that I have watched way too many reels of political protests, so I have found God’s Word comforting and correcting today. I am abundantly more thankful for the grace and peace of God. When we look and listen for God we rise above the chaos of this earth.
I must confess that some of my reactions and comments make me even more grateful for the blood and grace of Jesus Christ. As 1 Peter 1:3 promises, when we praise God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for raising Him from the dead we do find a living hope.
Jesus is our hope, and God is our power. 1 Peter 1:6 changes our perspectives, “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.” (NIV) In our trials we learn to trust God and also find joy as promised in 1 Peter 1:8 “You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy.” (NLT)
1 Peter 1:9 rings true “The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.” (NLT) Trusting God over the hysteria of the human mind, helps us live out 1 Peter 1:13 “Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.” (NIV)
When we keep our minds on God, His Son Jesus Christ, and we welcome the Holy Spirit to work in us, we find hope. When we witness the unruly crowds let us not forget 1 Peter 1:14 “As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.” (NIV)
Instead of acting ignorantly let us act as 1 Peter 1:15-16 “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”” (BSB) Let us also remember 1 Peter 2:12 “Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.” (NLT)
Ironically, 1 Peter 2:13-15 tell us “For the Lord’s sake, submit to all human authority—whether the king as head of state, or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honor those who do right. It is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you.” (NLT)
Although it is not easy, we are called to live out 1 Peter 2:17 “Respect everyone, and love the family of believers. Fear God, and respect the king.” (NLT) We can only do this as we look to the example of Jesus and follow His steps as we were instructed in 1 Peter 2:21. Jesus has set the example for us in 1 Peter 2:23 “He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.” (NLT)
When we leave our arguments in the hands of God, we find gratitude for the abundant grace and peace He has given us through Jesus Christ.
Today’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Son Jesus Christ who came to set the example for us. Thank You LORD for Your Holy Spirit who works in us to set us apart as holy as Jesus is holy. Grant us sober minds dear LORD to show respect to all others. We trust You Father God to be the judge over all. In the name of our risen savior Jesus Christ, we do pray. Amen.
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