Our scripture this morning is 1 Peter 5:9-11.
Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Peter reminds us that believers throughout time have suffered for their faith. While we may live in a “civil” society, there are still those who resist Christ’s message of love and persecute those who share it. We should not be surprised by this, in fact we should be surprised if we are not.
God has promised to “restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast”. We can rely on Him to fortify our spirits for the task He has given us. Paul tells us we are strengthened “so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:17).
God will not send us without the resources required. As long as we “stand firm in the faith” we will be given what is needed for His work. God wants us all to succeed in fulfilling our Great Commission – to make disciples of all nations.
Loving Lord, we are grateful to be included in Your plan of salvation. Bless us to go in Your name to tell the world of Your mercy and love. Amen.
