1 Peter 5:1-14 – Not Just For Elders

Read 1 Peter 5:1-14

At first, if you’re not an “elder,” you may think this reading is not for you. That term doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with age; rather, it is believed that elders were chosen because of their mature faith and understanding of Christ’s teachings. It’s helpful to see how elders should handle the flock “God has entrusted” to them. I’m sure we’ve all seen people in positions of authority within the church body who have acted in contrary ways. Isn’t it good to know there is a Biblical direction to follow for those chosen by God?

This reading quickly shifts to include “all of you,” not just elders, in verse 5. Peter’s first letter concludes with an abundance of parting wisdom. What spoke to you and your faith journey? Was it Peter’s reference to humility or grace? What nearly jumped off the page for me was this. “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” Sounds simple, but it’s not easy. How do we finally let go of those worries without taking them back again? Continue reading “1 Peter 5:1-14 – Not Just For Elders”

1 Peter 4:1-19 – Endure It!

Read 1 Peter 4:1-19

This is one of those passages where it helps to imagine Peter, Jesus’ own disciple, sitting you down to tell you what you can expect as a Christ-follower. It’s not an easy road. And yet it is the most rewarding way to live. When you start living your life, “anxious to do the will of God,” there’s an undeniable shift toward peace.

You may be discovering for the first time that non-believers can be cruel toward you and your devotion to God. Remember, they just don’t understand. Your choice to give up your old, wicked habits may surprise others, but think about the One you are seeking to please. When we act in God-honoring ways, our Creator is pleased. Continue reading “1 Peter 4:1-19 – Endure It!”

1 Peter 3:1-22 – How to Show Up

Read 1 Peter 3:1-22

There are nuggets of truth for everyone in this reading, including wives, husbands, and all Christians. As a husband, Peter would have a unique perspective. It’s interesting to reread what he tells the wives, knowing he had his own wife. If you are married, do you glean any wisdom here from Peter?

I know from experience that my husband would be in total agreement with Peter when he said, “You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.” And as a husband, I’m confident David sees me as an “equal partner in God’s gift of new life,” as Peter suggests. How much richer a marriage relationship can be when we honor each other. Continue reading “1 Peter 3:1-22 – How to Show Up”

1 Peter 2:11-25 – Authority

Read 1 Peter 2:11-25

I can still hear my mother telling me, “Respect your elders.” She meant people in authority like my teachers, the police, the pastor, and, of course, my parents. At the time, I had no idea this was a Biblical concept. Peter expands this for us, “For the Lord’s sake, submit to all human authority—whether the king as head of state, or the officials he has appointed.”

I don’t intend to make this political, but we should pray for our government’s leaders, whether we agree with them or not. Who are we to question what God allows in this world? Sadly, as you look at the world leaders today, finding a true man of God with a heart for God like King David is hard to find. Even King David had his faults and weaknesses. Continue reading “1 Peter 2:11-25 – Authority”

1 Peter 2:1-10 – What Do You Crave?

Read 1 Peter 2:1-10

The first verse can send a shiver down most of our backs when we realize we are guilty. “So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech.” It’s this same evil behavior that breaks down friendships, families, and especially our relationship with God. We’re all guilty and need to be cleansed. I’ve often said I’m glad Jesus must have a big eraser because he washes away our sins.

Peter is “spot on” with his counsel about life. Verse 5 is a doozy. “And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God.” It’s not often that we think of ourselves in terms of “living stones” or “holy priests.” At least I don’t. But Peter calls us out as being just that! Continue reading “1 Peter 2:1-10 – What Do You Crave?”

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