Daily Devotions for MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 | 1 PETER 4:7-8 Peter writes his letter to an early Christian community suffering under severe Roman persecution. He writes to encourage believers to hold onto hope and to live out their faith in bold and simple ways. The context for our passage is Peter’s belief that “the end of all things is near,” or “at hand.” In light of the chaos and violence that surround them, it’s not hard to imagine why the early church leaders think – hope – that Jesus’ return and the consummation of God’s work is imminent, including the judgment of those who persecute them. In light of the brevity of the time that Peter assumes they have to endure this, Peter first encourages disciples to remain calm and clear-headed. How often have we heard of groups of Christians who quit their jobs, abandon their homes and sit on mountaintops because they believe that Jesus’ return is imminent? Peter commands disciples instead to stay the course, remain disciplined and not lose their focus so that they can remain in prayer during the ensuing chaos. How can we stay the course and remain disciplined today? Your next step: discover your gifts to discern your purpose, and move from merely existing to really living.
Posted on: Mon, 23 Sep 2013 12:46:30 +0000
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