1 Pet 4:7–19

4:7
For the culmination of all things is near. So be self-controlled and
sober-minded for the sake of prayer.
8
Above all keep your love for one another fervent, because
love covers a multitude of sins.
9
Show hospitality to one another without complaining.
10
Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good
stewards of the varied grace of God.
11
Whoever speaks, let it be with God’s words. Whoever serves, do so with the
strength that God supplies, so that in everything God will be glorified
through Jesus Christ. To him belong the glory and the power forever and
ever. Amen.
12
Dear friends, do not be astonished that a trial by fire is occurring among
you, as though something strange were happening to you.
13
But rejoice in the degree that you have shared in the sufferings of
Christ, so that when his glory is revealed you may also rejoice and be glad.
14
If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the
Spirit of glory, who is the Spirit of God, rests on you.
15
But let none of you suffer as a murderer or thief or criminal or as a
troublemaker.
16
But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that
you bear such a name.
17
For it is time for judgment to begin, starting with the house of God. And
if it starts with us, what will be the fate of those who are disobedient to
the gospel of God?
18
And if the righteous are barely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and sinners?
19
So then let those who suffer according to the will of God entrust their
souls to a faithful Creator as they do good.

One thought:

To be an authentic Christian in a hostile culture is a challenging prospect – only with God’s strength can it be done

 

 

Three questions:

 

What is one area you need to grow in as a servant of God’s people?

 

Do you feel like you need to invest in God’s people more/less?

 

How could you grow in that area from Q1?

 

 

Prayer:

 

Give thanks that we have the Spirit of Glory and that we will not be ashamed when the end comes.

Ask God to help you serve God’s people in love, hospitality and in many other ways with the gifts God has given.

Ask God to help you to suffer unashamedly for the gospel and to trust in Him.

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