In The Word
Read: 1 Peter 4:7-19
7 The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. 8 Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Be hospitable to one another without complaint. 10 As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God. 11 Whoever speaks is to do so as one who is speaking actual words of God; whoever serves is to do soas one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Share the Sufferings of Christ
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though something strange were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that at the revelation of His glory you may also rejoice and be overjoyed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory, and of God, rests upon you. 15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner? 19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God are to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation
Walking In The Word
The “End Times” has become big business, and out of fear, so many people have begun preparations. Daily reading and studying the Word of God will keep you from the ungodly influence of others.
Peter writes that the end is near and yet he is not concerned about having bunkers, ammo, or food reserves. Instead, he stresses a “fervent love” for others. Fear will cause you to focus on yourself, where love will cause you to focus on others. With this strong and sincere love, you will tend to overlook and forget the small, and sometimes large, offenses that occur in your relationships. This is the love that Jesus has for you.
You will grow in this love when you begin to use your gifting to serve others. This love is costly, so when you say “yes” to serve, you will have to sacrifice, and yes, it is going to hurt. True service will cost you time, money, convenience, sleep, friends, and maybe family. Remember, it cost Jesus His life.
I understand your life is busy, but time is short and eternity is forever. Until you serve in a sacrificial way, your heart will not develop this love. Many times the heart does not change until it suffers pain. So, today I challenge you to find someone in need and serve him or her unselfishly. Ask your pastor or leadership where you can meet a need, and watch your love for others grow. Then, you will be prepared for the end, which is near.