The Greatest Gift to Mankind

Thank you God for the most precious gift of Your only Son; all because You love us beyond measure.

Celebrate the Joy of Christmas!

Why do we need Jesus?

What did He do?

How did He do it?

What does it mean for us?

Several months ago, at the Senior living center where my mom lives, we began answering these four questions in our monthly Bible study. We based our answers on a passage in the Bible in the book of Titus. Think! How would you answer the questions above? Do you agree that you need Jesus or are you unsure? Are you able to say what He did or how, or why it was necessary? How does the understanding of these answers change your life?

Let’s do a quick recap. Why we need Jesus – because we are sinful, imperfect, hating what is good, and disobedient to the Truth. We want our own way, we seek our own gratification, we think we are better than others, and we look down on all those who oppose our way of thinking. This is very clearly stated in verse three of our studied scripture.

The second question we answered is, What did Jesus do. When we consider what Jesus did, we need to think of the true meaning of God’s kindness. God’s very character is kind. He is perfect in providing exactly what we need even though we do not deserve His blessings. Because of God’s loving-kindness towards us, He sent His Son to save us. Jesus willingly laid aside His deity and became man in order to take upon Himself the penalty of death we owe for our sin. The reality is, we do not deserve His blessings.

Jesus paid the price for mankind’s sin – How did He do this? By willingly being born on the earth as a baby for the purpose of saving us. God sent His only Son to suffer and die for the sin of the world. Man is undeserving of this perfect sacrifice, yet because of God’s mercy, those who accept Christ as their Lord and Savior are washed clean of their sin.

Now, let’s consider the last question – What does this mean for us? – which fits beautifully into this time of year as we celebrate Christmas. In our culture, the holidays are all about Santa Claus and presents. As a Christian, this season is about remembering the birth of Jesus, the greatest gift ever given to mankind.

Read Titus 3:3-7, then let’s concentrate on the last verse of this passage.

Titus 3:3-7 For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. 4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, 5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Jesus was 100% God and man at the same time, choosing to live as man to fulfill being the perfect sacrifice. Without God’s kindness working in our heart to understand Him and recognize our need for a Savior, we would be eternally lost, without any real hope now and without hope for the future.

Those who believe are justified by His grace. Being justified means we have been freed from the penalty of our sin. Where sin once controlled us, now we are free from its power. Because of Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection, we are declared righteous in Him. This is not because we deserve God’s blessing but only because of God’s grace. God’s grace alone allows us the benefit of His favor; we receive His blessings because of Jesus’ work on the cross. God’s grace allows a sinner’s heart to accept Jesus’ sacrifice and receive eternal life. Salvation is a gift given freely and must be accepted freely. There is nothing we can do to earn it and we certainly do not deserve it.

Romans 3:24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;

Because of Jesus, we have been made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. When you are an heir, you share in something given by another. Accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior makes you a child of God and an heir of Heaven.

Galatians 4:6-7 Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.

The section of scripture in Titus 3:3-7, is the Gospel. Five important truths to consider:

The meaning of GRACE – undeserved blessings from God

Who MAN is – a sinner who cannot save himself.

Who GOD is – perfect and holy yet choosing to extend mercy towards sinful men.

Who CHRIST is and what He did for us – Jesus Christ is 100% God; He was born to the earth in human form. He willingly suffered for men in order to save them from eternal separation from God; Jesus died to save men from the penalty of sin and arose from the dead claiming victory over the power of sin.

What FAITH is – believing without seeing; fully trusting in God’s plan of redemption and accepting His gift of forgiveness through His only Son Jesus. Saving faith is trusting in Jesus alone for salvation.

What does the truth of our redemption through Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection, mean for us? Forgiveness for sins, hope for the future, and joy inexpressible.

John 15:11 "These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.

Romans 5:1-2 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.

1Peter 1:8-9 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

Luke 2:7-11 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

We need Jesus’ perfect sacrifice to redeem our souls to righteousness. When we accept the gift of His undeserved favor towards us, we stand as His children, holy and acceptable to God the Father. Then we have the promise of everlasting life with our Savior in Heaven. Thank you God for the most precious gift of Your only Son; all because You love us beyond measure.

Pride and Humility

1Peter 3:3-4 Your adornment must not be merely external–braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

1Peter 5:5

Before we look at verse 5, let’s review verses 1-4. Peter addressed the elders, specifically those who were older in age and leaders of the church; perhaps this would have included those who were also older in the faith. The word used for elders is presbuteros which literally means older or a senior. He includes himself with them showing his humility, addressing himself as their fellow elder. His general instruction to the elders was to shepherd God’s children – exercising oversight, according to God’s will, with eagerness. This charge was not to be felt as a burden but rather an opportunity. God did not commission them to control the flock; instead, they were to lead by example, all the while looking forward to their promise of Heaven. Moving on to verse 5-

1Peter 5:5 You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.

Beginning in verse five, Peter addresses the younger men – those who were newer in the faith or youthful. The word used for younger is neos meaning youthful or regenerate, in age, newer to the faith. He begins with the word Likewise, meaning similarly. In other words, take heed to the instruction given previously and submit to the elders, same word as in verse one, presbuteros, meaning older, or a senior, especially an Israelite Sanhedrist or Christian elder. being subject to them, obeying them. This subjection is not under duress, but by choice.

Ephesians 5:21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

Having the fear of Christ is a reverential love for Him which motivates us to please Him in obedience. The reason for our willing attitude of subjection towards those in leadership is our love for Jesus. Think! If we all seek to serve one another, holding one another as precious in God’s sight, recognizing we can learn from one another, then we are all blessed.

Why would this be good practice?

Often there are those around us who have already gone through similar experiences; those older than us or more mature in the faith, who have learned through application of God’s word, what to do and what not to do, what it looks like in real life circumstances, what actions glorify God and what to avoid, how to encourage others with Truth rather than be a discouragement to others. We have tools that help us stay the course, yet we must be willing to recognize that we do not have all the answers and we benefit from the help, direction, and examples of others.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.

Peter goes on to include everyone in his instruction – and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another. Each person is to willingly place themselves in subjection to one another – unless we are asked to sin. Let’s not miss that tiny word all. No one is exempt, this applies to everyone, in any manner and means, always, every day in every way, whatsoever and whosoever. All means all! This is an important instruction to grasp because we will run across people who seem more difficult to serve for one reason or another. It is those who are struggling most who need our compassion and unconditional love. Consider the example of Jesus.

Mark 10:45 "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."

John 13:14 "If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.

1Timothy 2:1-6 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.

We should cultivate a mutual respect for one another’s thoughts and decisions. Sometimes we think we have the best idea or understanding of a situation, however, it is so important that we are able to lay aside our own preferences in order to keep peace and unity in leadership. You may feel strongly about your plans, but others feel just as strongly about theirs. It is possible you may not always agree with decisions that are made, yet unless it is sin, we can choose to follow, praying and trusting that God is working in the lives of those who are leading. Without this humility towards one another, it is difficult for anything to be accomplished or to move forward. For example, the Bible tells us to honor our father and mother. There are probably an infinite number of ways this can be done; therefore, it will look different for everyone. Circumstances vary, so there is not one way to do this. How I might fulfill this command may look quite different than how you follow this command. Neither is the best way; neither is wrong, unless you simply refuse to obey God’s command.

Ephesians 5:21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;

When we think of clothing ourselves with a garment, we are covered with something. What others see on the outside – our actions – should be proof of our humility in our heart, the inside. The words, ‘clothe yourselves’, are perhaps alluding to the outer garment or apron commonly worn by slaves. “They were to be willing to take any place, and to perform any office, however humble, in order to serve and benefit others. … they were to be willing to occupy any station, however humble, by which they might honour God”, Barnes.

Are you willing to serve in any way? Sometimes we may have an idea of where we want to serve; often, God has a different plan. We need to be willing to go through whatever doors God opens for us, even if we do not see it as our strength, or it seems like it might not be as fun as other ministries. God knows where He can use us best.

What examples in the world do you see where there is a problem with individuals insisting on their own way?

Why do you wear clothing? What does it mean to ‘clothe yourself with humility’?

Practically, it means to gird oneself for labor, the apron being a badge of servitude (Strong’s Greek Dictionary), being ready to serve. Think of it as being prepared. The words ‘clothe yourselves with humility’, mean to esteem or regard another as more important than yourself, it is a courteous regard for people’s feelings, a disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others. It can mean to oblige others or to have a mutual respect for others. Humility should become such an integral part of our character that we are continually clothed by it in our thoughts and actions. Are your thoughts and actions covered in humility; is your motivation a humble heart?

1Peter 5:5 goes on to explain why we are to have a heart of humility. It reads, for God is opposed to the proud. Pride is not the character quality you want to be described by if you are a Christian. Pride is a product of the world’s thinking. People like to be important, they become proud of their accomplishments or position. In general, people like glory to be focused on them. They take ownership of their abilities rather than giving glory to God for what He is doing in their life. But the Apostle Peter says this is not in accordance with God’s teachings. Instead of ‘look at what I’ve done’, it should be ‘look at what God has done’.

Think of what it means for God to oppose you, to be against you. I have two reactions towards this thought. First, it terrifies me to consider not only the absence of God’s blessings, but the sting of His wrath. Second, it saddens me to consider the thought of rejecting His most precious gift to us, given out of love. You may understand what it is like to live life without being obedient towards God’s commands and without the understanding of His grace towards you – fear and hopelessness is a fair description of that time.

But gives grace to the humble. God grants His favor to those who are humbled so that they can continue to walk in humility through difficult circumstances.

Proverbs 3:34 Though He scoffs at the scoffers, yet He gives grace to the afflicted.

This verse does not mean I need to be afflicted to receive God’s grace, it does mean that when I go through trials, when I look to God for deliverance, He will give me the grace needed to walk through a difficult situation in a way which glorifies Him.

James 4:6 But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE."

James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.

Pride in oneself opposes God. It is okay to have a correct estimate of your strengths and abilities, yet we need to recognize that all we are and all we have is from God to be used for His glory. We are to put no importance on ourselves, understanding our desperate need for humility so that we are constant in our desire to lift God high rather than ourselves. We are nothing without Christ.

Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

When we are clothed in humility, our actions, thoughts, words, and motivations are directed by a submissive spirit to God. How can we tell if we are not acting humble?

Are you able to subject yourself to others, receiving direction and correction with humility? – Even if you disagree. Or do you insist on your own way?

1Peter 3:3-4 Your adornment must not be merely external--braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

"Let your minds, behaviour, garb, and whole frame, be adorned with humility, as the most beautiful habit you can wear; this will render obedience and duty easy and pleasant; but, if you be disobedient and proud, God will set himself to oppose and crush you; for he resisteth the proud, when he giveth grace to the humble." Observe,

1. Humility is the great preserver of peace and order in all Christian churches and societies, consequently pride is the great disturber of them, and the cause of most dissensions and breaches in the church.

2. There is a mutual opposition between God and the proud, so the word signifies; they war against him, and he scorns them; he resisteth the proud, because they are like the devil, enemies to himself and to his kingdom among men, Pr 3:34.

3. Where God giveth grace to be humble, he will give more grace, more wisdom, faith, holiness, and humility”. MHC

Serving for the Benefit of Others

Since we are all servants of the Lord, each of us has opportunities to encourage, to share Truths from God’s word, to edify one another – all for God’s glory.

1Peter 5:2-4

Recall from our last study, the Apostle Peter counts himself among those who are leading the church. He does this with humility and describes himself as one who has witnessed the sufferings of Christ, and one who is promised the glory of Heaven. In the next few verses, Peter gives general instruction to the leaders of the church, explains the details of his instruction, and encourages them with a reminder of their future in Christ.

1Peter 5:2-4 shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

The Apostle gives a general instruction to shepherd the flock, then he describes what it means. He answers the question, ‘How are we to do this?’.

By exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God;

Not for sordid gain, but with eagerness;

Nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.

The ‘flock’ are those who follow Jesus, those who belong to God. The elders or ministers of the church are to care for God’s children. This is a serious stewardship and responsibility. Thought – do you pray for the elders in your church? How difficult do you think it might be to oversee individuals who have different personalities, come from different backgrounds and experiences, and are in varying stages of spiritual growth and maturity?

Shepherds guide their flock to food, and they protect their flock. The KJV reads ‘feed the flock’. Peter would well remember this same charge repeatedly given to him by Jesus. Recall that three times Peter had denied Jesus (Matthew 26:70,72,74). In the book of John, we read the interaction between the risen Christ and Peter. Jesus questions Peter’s love for him three times; then Jesus gives him a charge to care for the church – three times. The repetition of this exchange is important to show Peter’s genuine repentance, but also the repetition to shepherd the flock shows it is gravely important.

John 21:15-17 So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus *said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?" He *said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He *said to him, "Tend My lambs." He *said to him again a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?" He *said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He *said to him, "Shepherd My sheep." He *said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?" Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, "Do you love Me?" And he said to Him, "Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You." Jesus *said to him, "Tend My sheep.

Paul gave the same instruction to the elders in Ephesus as they gathered in Miletus. Acts 20:28 "Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.

When you read this verse, what insights do you have? I thought it was interesting when I read one commentary on the explanation of feeding the flock. It simply said, ‘Do not fleece the flock’ (Adam Clarke’s Commentary). The meaning is quite clear – to fleece someone means to rip them off for your own benefit. This is the opposite of feeding the flock with the purpose of growing their understanding and desiring their individual blessing as a result. It is the opposite of caring for them. The leaders were to shepherd the flock of God among them, or those in close proximity to them. They were to shepherd the flock diligently and willingly, not because they had to but because they wanted to.

“Not by constraint, but willingly. Not as if you felt that a heavy yoke was imposed on you, or a burden from which you would gladly be discharged. Go cheerfully to your duty as a work which you love, and act like a freeman in it, and not as a slave. Arduous as are the labours of the ministry, yet there is no work on earth in which a man can and should labour more cheerfully”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; They were to care for the church, understanding they were stewards of God’s church, and they were to set the greater interest of their ministry on those who were in their immediate surroundings. God has purposefully placed His children right where He wants them. Not by compulsion – as if forced to do so, but voluntarily – willingly. Think of the difference between being made to do something and wanting to do something. The church at the time Peter wrote this was under persecution; overseeing the spiritual care of individuals was a difficult task. Serving should not be looked upon as a burden.

Although these instructions are written to a specific group of individuals – the elders and leaders of the church – this does not mean we can cast away the principles set before us. Since we are all servants of the Lord, each of us has opportunities to encourage, to share Truths from God’s word, to edify one another – all for God’s glory.

Do you serve willingly with a cheerful heart, grateful for the opportunities God gives you? Or do you serve because you feel pressured to do so?

What is the attitude of your service? Are we truly desiring spiritual growth and blessing in other’s lives?

The purpose of our service is to glorify God, the mission of our service is to share the Gospel. We are to act according to God’s will, not our own. Our service should not be for our own gain, but the blessing and spiritual growth of others; this is what glorifies God.

When our sight is on God’s glory, we are not as easily discouraged. We cannot be driven by what we think but rather our actions are to be based on the Truths in God’s Word. How can we be certain we are acting according to God’s will rather than our own desires?

Psalm 54:6 Willingly I will sacrifice to You; I will give thanks to Your name, O LORD, for it is good.

Psalm 78:70-72 He also chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; from the care of the ewes with suckling lambs He brought him to shepherd Jacob His people, and Israel His inheritance. So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands.

And not for sordid gain, but with eagerness;

Are you looking to get or give? Are you seeking to be noticed?

Again, be certain of your motivation. We should not serve to look important or to be recognized. If this is your goal, you will be easily discouraged and lose your interest and become disenchanted with others. Instead, we should serve willingly, always motivated by our love for God and for one another.

“But of a ready mind. Cheerfully, promptly. We are to labour in this work, not under the influence of the desire of gain, but from the promptings of love. There is all the difference conceivable between one who does a thing because he is paid for it and one who does it from love--between, for example, the manner in which one attends on us when we are sick who loves us, and one who is merely hired to do it”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge,

The leaders in the church were not to think of themselves as greater than those they were shepherding; theirs was not a position of control but of shepherding, teaching, and caring for the flock. Looking at the translation of these words, it could be worded ‘but not in a manner of dominating God’s children’. Everyone, especially those in any kind of leadership position, needs to remember they are stewards in all roles God has placed them. It is an honor and a privilege to serve our Lord. Remember, those who are called by God belong to Him.

Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them to Himself and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. "It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."

2Corinthians 1:24 Not that we lord it over your faith, but are workers with you for your joy; for in your faith you are standing firm.

The leaders of the church are to guide the flock, feed the flock, and protect the flock, not in a position of absolute authority or dominion, but with a heart of love. There are many so-called religions whose leaders place themselves in a position of authority and lordship which is exactly opposite of the teachings we find in God’s word. Think of the pharisees dressing in a certain way to be recognized. All honor and glory is to be for God alone.

Jeremiah 3:15 "Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you on knowledge and understanding.

“Preacher or minister, whosoever thou art, who readest this, apply not the word to thy neighbour, whether he be state-appointed, congregation-appointed, or self-appointed; take all to thyself; ... See that thy own heart, views, and conduct be right with God”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

But proving to be examples to the flock. “Not assuming to yourselves dominion over those who fall to your lot; but being humble, and behaving towards them with such gentle, tender solicitude for their souls, and such an entire freedom from the very appearance either of avarice or ambition, that your examples may be rendered worthy the imitation of the flock, and your conduct as instructive as any of your cautions and precepts can be”, Doddridge.

In other words, practice what you preach. To preach without practice is called hypocrisy.

Philippians 3:17 Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us.

I am drawn to think of the sincerity of the heart. We all know individuals who say one thing and do another. Often, words alone do not convey what is in a person’s heart. It is the action we see which shows genuineness. Consider our greatest example of humility in leadership – Jesus. He walked as a man yet was Lord of all. He did not force His Truths upon others; He lived the Truth. His example was service, yet He had all authority. Following His Father’s plan was difficult, yet Jesus submitted to God’s will. Each of us should consider the example of our actions.

If I say I am a Christian, do I live as one? Are the words I share reflected in the life I live? Telling others the way they should act is not as effective as showing others through your own life. The elders or leaders in the church were exhorted to shepherd those whom God had placed in their care. Shepherding was not a position of authority but rather a position of guidance and instruction in Truth by example. This was a high calling, and considering the period of time in which it was written, a difficult calling – one filled with trials and persecution – yet they were called to be faithful, to be humble, and to be an example. All the while looking to the glory of Heaven. This is the motivation and the promise to those who labor for Christ.

And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. The Chief Shepherd is Jesus. Those leaders who are faithful, who place themselves under Christ’s authority, who accept their role of shepherding the sheep with humility of heart and care for the lost, will be rewarded when Jesus returns. “O ye heavenly-minded, diligent, self-denying pastors after God's own heart, whether ye be in the Church established by the state, or in those divisions widely separated from, or nearly connected with it, take courage; preach Jesus; press through all difficulties in the faith of your God; fear no evil while meditating nothing but good. Ye are stars in the right hand of Jesus, who walks among your golden candlesticks, and has lighted that lamp of life which ye are appointed to trim; fear not, your labour in the Lord cannot be in vain!”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Think of the analogy used above: a lighted candlestick which requires trimming. If you do not trim the wick of a candle, it will burn furiously bright for a while but will then dim and eventually drown itself out in a pool of hot wax. To remain a continuous steady light, it needs regular trimming.

1Peter 1:3-7 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

1Corinthians 9:23-25 I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it. Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.

Notice it is an unfading crown of glory which is received. This is unlike the crowns used in that period of history for victors in public games and the conquerors of war. The crowns placed on their heads were made of leaves and flowers which would eventually fade and dry up. The Greek word used for ‘unfading’, or in the KJV, ‘that fadeth not away’, comes from the word for a flower called amaranth. Even after these flowers die, they retain their rich color. The crown of glory, also referred to as the crown of righteousness and the crown of life, is imperishable. An eternal reward awaits those who labor for Jesus.

2Timothy 4:8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

“And if this be indeed your character and behaviour, you will render up your account hereafter with joy; for when he, who does you the honour to acknowledge himself the chief Shepherd of the flock, shall appear, to take the final survey of it, and examine into the conduct of those to whom he had partly committed it, you shall be most magnificently and nobly rewarded, and receive an unfading crown of glory: a crown which shall bloom in immortal beauty and vigour, when all the transitory glories of this world are withered like a fading flower”, Doddridge.

Apply It!

Pray for your Elders and Leaders that they seek to glorify God in their service.

Do you seek to make their leadership easier by trusting God for their direction or do you voice discontent regarding their leadership?

Do you serve with a cheerful heart, desiring that others are blessed? How can you grow in this area?

Are you discouraged if your service goes unrecognized? Do you need to check your motivation?

Do your words and actions reflect your love for God?

Entrusted to God; Living for Him

Think! God has entrusted you, as His child, with His Truths. This is enormous! It is the most valuable possession we can have –

In this last chapter of 1Peter, the Apostle concludes with instructions given to the elders of the church to shepherd the flock in verses 1-4. Then Peter gives specific instructions to those who are younger, and also addresses the group as a whole – encouraging them, praying for them, praising God, and reminding them to stand firm in their faith.

1Peter 5:1 Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed,

‘Therefore’ resumes the exhortation from 1Peter 4:19, Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right. Peter’s message of ‘keep on keeping on with your focus on your heavenly future’ continues. It’s as if he is saying, ‘since you have entrusted your souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right’, then here is your calling. Before we get to the specifics of what they ought to do, we’ll look at who this letter is addressed to and the words the Apostle uses to describe himself.

First, the Apostle addresses those in charge – the elders among you. Peter includes himself in this group of those he is exhorting; he refers to himself as a fellow elder. These are the individuals who care for the church – the shepherds of the flock, the teachers, pastors, elders, and deacons. They may have also been elders in age considering that Peter addresses the younger men in verse five, but this does not change the exhortation to the ministers of the church. We learn something about Peter’s humility in this verse as he includes himself in the same role as the elders of the church. He was one of the twelve disciples and a witness of Jesus’ life and death, yet he does not place himself in any position except that of serving together with those he is writing to. He also spent time with Jesus under His direct teaching but notice that the direction Peter gives to these men who lead the church is for himself also. If we are worldly thinking, then who you know gives you clout. When we are Christ-minded, each of us is equal; the need for our salvation is the same; the price paid the same; the eventual fruition of God’s grace and mercy the same. Individually we have certain roles, but each person is needed and as important as another.

To exhort in this verse means to invite, to call for, to (be of good) comfort, to desire. It seems that this is not so much a command as it is an encouragement to come alongside one another in their endeavors to lead the flock. Read this as an earnest request from the Apostle to the ministers of the church to press on.

Note, Peter describes himself as a witness of the sufferings of Christ. Imagine, walking with Christ physically, in His footsteps literally. This was Peter’s experience.

Acts 1:21-22 "Therefore it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us – beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us – one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection."

Acts 2:32 "This Jesus God raised up again, to which we are all witnesses.

The Apostle well understood the sufferings of Jesus.

Acts 3:5 but put to death the Prince of life, the one whom God raised from the dead, a fact to which we are witnesses.

Acts 10:39 "We are witnesses of all the things He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They also put Him to death by hanging Him on a cross.

“He was with Christ in the garden; he was with him when he was apprehended. and he was with him in the high priest's hall. Whether he followed him to the cross we know not; … He could, however, with the strictest propriety, say, from the above circumstances, that he was a witness of the sufferings of Christ. We are all to be a witness for Christ”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

The word witness, martus, is literal or figurative, by analogy, a martyr, someone who gives his life. A witness is also someone who can give an account or record of what they have seen or heard. Read what Jesus said to the Apostles:

Luke 24:44-48 Now He said to them, "These are My words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things which are written about Me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled." Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and He said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. "You are witnesses of these things.

Acts 1:8 but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."

Pause for a moment and consider the Apostle who wrote this epistle. He walked with Jesus, he was friends with Jesus, shared meals with Him, and listened to His teachings. But Peter also knew what it meant to be pulled by fear, selfishness, and sin in the world. He denied the Teacher and Friend whom he loved and suffered the regret and shame of his weakness. Yet God still used him mightily. Our faithfulness may falter as we fight sin but God’s faithfulness to His children is always certain. Peter had witnessed the suffering of Jesus, he experienced His faithfulness and forgiveness, and now he was willing to suffer for Him.

Think of the conversion of the Apostle Paul. Known by the name of Saul and a great persecutor of Christians, God called him to be a witness, and his life was dramatically changed. God is faithful to His children even when they are not, His forgiveness and blessings abound. This is a good reminder to move forward in our serving and walk with God despite our failures, because He is the One holding us up, providing His strength that we might continue to glorify His name. It is also an important reminder that we should never give up on praying for those who haven’t placed their trust in Jesus. God is working in hearts even though we may not see it. There is no one He cannot save if they genuinely seek Him.

Acts 22:14-15 "And he said, 'The God of our fathers has appointed you to know His will and to see the Righteous One and to hear an utterance from His mouth. 'For you will be a witness for Him to all men of what you have seen and heard.

Consider what it means personally for you to be a witness of Jesus Christ. To speak truth from God’s word, we must endeavor to know it; if we are to witness by our life, we must seek to understand what God desires from us so that we can be obedient and faithful to His call.

Think! God has entrusted you, as His child, with His Truths. This is enormous! It is the most valuable possession we can have – to be purchased by our Savior’s blood, to be called by God, to be an heir of His promises.

Do you seek to be a faithful witness of God’s word in your speech and in your serving? If so, how – what does this look like?
Is the desire of your life to be an ambassador of the Truth? Is your answer backed by action?
When others look at your life, do they ‘see’ Jesus; do they know there is something different about you? If asked about Jesus, do you respond as a witness of who He is and what He has done?

More than once, after sharing the Gospel with someone, I have heard their response of, ‘I know I need to do this but I’m not ready’. There are examples written for us of those who were called by Jesus and immediately left what they were doing and followed Him. There is an urgency to respond to Him, tomorrow is not guaranteed. In and of ourselves we would never be ready to bow before Jesus and accept Him as our Lord and Savior. It is God’s work in us – when we respond to His call, it is His power which changes our thinking, our behavior, and all the ‘things’ in our lives that need attention.

Everything else in our lives is secondary to our walk with Jesus. We are to be striving to become increasingly like Him, to give glory to God through our testimony of His truths. Being a Christian, a follower of Christ, is not something we add to our life – it becomes our purpose for living, our mode for serving, and our focus for the future.

Today, what is your purpose? How will you serve? Where is your focus?

Along with being a witness of the sufferings of Christ, the Apostle associates himself with being a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed. He shares in the praise and worship of Christ for the hope that is promised to those who follow Him. A believer’s inheritance is Heaven!

Do you anticipate your home in Heaven where you will be in the presence of God’s glory?

I have sweet memories of spending time with my dad in the weeks before he passed away. He wanted to hear about heaven. He was not afraid of death, instead he looked forward to his future. I remember his eyes lighting up when we read the description of the holy city, Jerusalem, found in Revelation Chapter 21.

Imagine. The hope we have of heaven is absolutely certain. Those who have placed their trust in Christ alone for forgiveness of sins become heirs in God’s Kingdom. Not because we have earned it but because of His grace.

1Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

1Peter 4:13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

John 17:19-24 "For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth. "I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me. "The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me. "Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.

Romans 8:17-18 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Our purpose is to be a witness for Christ.

Our promise is Heaven.

Psalm 73:24-5 With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth.

Some questions for application –

Are you willing to check your priorities? Specifically, what causes you to neglect reading your Bible and praying?

If you are in a Growth Group or Bible study, are you committed to attending and serving in your group or do you make excuses to not attend each week?

Think – when we are committed to something, we are faithful. This means if we attend a Growth Group, or Bible study, or go to church on Sunday, then we hold those commitments as a priority, not purposefully making other plans at those times, or only attending when we feel like it or when it fits into our busy schedule. If our pattern is one of being too tired or too busy to commit to fellowship and encouragement of others, this should cause us to re-think our priorities.

Do you attend church services or go to a GG or Bible Study or church event to be served or to serve?

We are encouraged when we encourage others. We can easily take for granted our ability to meet publicly, let’s remember this is an incredible blessing – one which many believers in parts of the world do not have. Lord, increase our understanding of Your blessings!

Help us to take seriously our witness of Christ; help us to live focused on our hope of Heaven.

How Did Jesus Save Mankind?

God’s mercy means He acts according to His exceeding compassion on our souls.

Why do we need Jesus?

What did He do?

How did He do it?

What does it mean for us?

How would you answer the questions above? Do you agree that you need Jesus or are you unsure? Are you able to say what He did or how, or why it was necessary? How does the understanding of these answers change your life?

In our first study we answered the question ‘Why do we need Jesus’. Last month, we discussed the answer to ‘What did He do’. This morning, we will attempt to address our third question, ‘How did He do it’.

Let’s do a quick recap. We need Jesus because we are sinful, imperfect, hating what is good, and disobedient to the Truth. We so easily want our own way, seek our own gratification, think ourselves better than others, and look down on all those who oppose our way of thinking. This is very clearly stated in verse three of our studied scripture.

When we consider what Jesus did, we need to think of the true meaning of God’s kindness. God’s very character is kind. He is perfect in providing exactly what we need regardless of whether we deserve His blessings. The reality is, we do not deserve His blessings and we never will. God sent His only Son to die for the sin of the world – even though man is undeserving of His perfect sacrifice. Without God’s kindness working in our heart to understand Him and recognize our need for a Savior, we would be eternally lost, without hope. Jesus saved us by taking the penalty we owe for sin upon Himself. Even our death would not have been enough to redeem us because a perfect and holy sacrifice was the only acceptable payment. Jesus willingly followed the Father’s plan; in obedience to God’s will He was born to die, to suffer, to redeem man for His Father’s glory.

As clever as we think man may be, only a perfect and holy God is able to set His plan for our redemption into place. Only a perfect and holy God could supply the sacrifice we need. God has saved us, not according to our merits, but according to His righteousness, according to His mercy.

Let’s look at what this means. It all depends on God, not us. God’s mercy means He acts according to His exceeding compassion on our souls.

Ephesians 2:3-9 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Our good works are not the cause of our salvation; our good works are not the basis for our salvation. Any number of things you might do, any man-made sacraments you might fulfill, any rule you might follow, cannot save you. Doing things does not provide security for your future. If this were so, there would be no need for a Savior. It is impossible to be saved based on our own justification.

The cause of our pardon is not our works and we can never be righteous in and of ourselves, rather it is the kindness and love of God. This acrostic helps to explain God’s grace – God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. This is all of God’s blessings bestowed on those who love Him, given freely because Jesus paid the ultimate price. Grace is God’s free unmerited goodness. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, all who trust in Him are blessed now and for eternity. When we say God is merciful, it means we do not receive what we truly deserve. What we truly deserve is God’s wrath, His judgment and condemnation for our sin. God’s mercy means that even though we are guilty, we no longer owe the penalty or cost of our sin. God does not hold our sin against us when we come before Him in faith, trusting in the work of His Son. Receiving God’s mercy means we do not experience God’s wrath for our sin. Through His Son, He has granted us complete forgiveness.

Think of God’s compassion. It is very different than the compassion we might show towards others. Our care for others is often based on what we think they deserve, or what we think is important or necessary. Sometimes, our compassion and care for others is even based on if we agree with them or not. We often choose to show care based on our own supposition if someone is deserving.

God freely bestows His mercy and goodness to all mankind. He desires to take away our misery because He loves us unconditionally. He doesn’t look at us and say ‘sorry, you blew it’. Every chance is given to us to receive His mercy. Because Jesus suffered and died for our sin, if we place our complete trust in Him alone, we are saved from eternal wrath.

Psalm 109:26 Help me, O LORD my God; save me according to Your lovingkindness.

Psalm 86:5 For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You.

by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,

God protects us and He delivers us. Consider, the Almighty God is looking out for your benefit! Circumstances may not always be what we might choose. In fact, difficult things happen, and we are often challenged in our own understanding. Yet, God has all the answers, He is in control of all things, and nothing is allowed in your life that He is unaware of. He will use all things for your good and His glory. This is His promise to those who love Him.

Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

Through Jesus we are spiritually restored from a state of sin to a state of righteousness. Baptism is an outward sign of our rebirth. Our inward renovation is the work of God’s grace and His Holy Spirit. Think of the changes God has wrought in your heart. If you have been saved through faith alone, by grace alone, in Christ alone, then you can look back at your life and see that you are very different than who you were before. The Holy Spirit working in our lives produces a change – a renewed way of thinking. Our feelings, desires, hopes, and purpose become centered on serving and glorifying God out of a heart of gratitude for what He has done.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

The baptism of water is an outward sign of the cleansing of our soul and baptism of the Holy Spirit through saving grace. To be baptized by water alone without being born of the Spirit does not save. Because Jesus died and arose again, sins power and control has been demolished. Because of Jesus, the Holy Spirit enables us to act in obedience towards God’s commands. In His strength, we have the ability to die to sin and live in righteousness.

Read the rest of this section we are looking at –

The Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior.

Because of God’s work in our heart, He has allowed us to turn towards His grace. He then lavishly pours His blessings upon us. Think of the words abundance and copious, these describe more than an adequate supply.

John 1:16 For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.

Ephesians 1:6-8 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight

“That is, which Holy Spirit was in its gifts and graces plentifully poured forth upon us, and dwelleth in us, not essentially, but energetically, illuminating, guiding, strengthening, and confirming of us: and the end of God herein is, That being justified by his grace, that is, by faith in his Son, we should be made heirs of eternal life, according to the hope which the promises of God have given us thereof.

Learn hence, 1. That all the grace which is so plentiful poured forth upon believers, is by the means and mediation of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Learn, 2. That justification being a sinner's absolution from guilt and punishment by the satisfaction of Christ the Redeemer, is yet an act of special grace and free favour in God, that being justified by his grace.

Learn, 3. That it is the blessed privilege of all justified persons, that they are now heirs to, and shall ere long be possessors of, eternal life; they shall ere long have in hand, what they now possess in hope: Being justified by grace, we are heirs according to the hope of eternal life”, William Burkitt New Testament.

We need Jesus because we are sinners and need to be saved from the wrath of God’s righteous judgment. God is perfect and holy. Man is a sinner and cannot save himself. Jesus chose to lay down His life for ours in obedience to His Father’s will. He did this to fulfill God’s plan of redemption for mankind. Jesus humbled Himself, taking on the form of man, suffering a death He did not deserve. Because Jesus is God’s only Son, holy and perfect, He is the only acceptable substitute for our debt. Faith in Jesus is the only key to Heaven. Jesus made a way for us to be saved from eternal punishment to everlasting life with our Father in Heaven.

Are you able to praise God for saving you? If you were to die today, do you know for certain you would go to Heaven? What is your answer based on?

What Did Jesus Do For You?

Imagine owing billions of dollars to someone and your very life as a slave forever, then you receive notice that not only is your debt paid in full, but you have been left more than you need and the person who paid your debt has given their life for yours. This is unimaginable, yet it is what God did in Jesus for you.

Why do we need Jesus?

What did He do?

How did He do it?

What does it mean for us?

How would you answer the questions above? Do you agree that you need Jesus or are you unsure? Are you able to say what He did or how, or why it was necessary? Does the understanding of these answers change your life at all?

This is the second of four studies written for an assisted living center about an hour from where I live. Once a month, I drive to this facility and we have a Bible study together.

Last month we addressed the first question of Why we need Jesus. Our answer was found in the first verse of this section of scripture. Titus 3:3 For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. The words used in this description of ourselves seem a bit strong however, upon a closer look at them, we were able to understand the ways in which we are foolish and disobedient. The conclusion is that we desperately need a Savior, and His name is Jesus.

Today, we will seek to answer the question of, What did He do?

Titus 3:4-5a But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for Mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness,

First, we must consider the kindness of God. What is the kindness of God? We may easily think of kindness in the way which we might try to treat one another. The word kindness in our English dictionary means “the quality of being warmhearted and considerate and humane and sympathetic”. It is having a tendency to be kind and forgiving; we might think of someone doing a kind act for someone else. Perhaps this would be acting nice or choosing to help someone who is rather difficult. Often, when we act in kindness towards others we are reciprocated with like kindness.

The kindness of God is a bit different. Kindness is part of God’s character – He is kindness personified! The Greek word from which it was translated, means usefulness, morally, excellence in character or demeanor; gentleness, goodness. The root of this word means to furnish what is needed; to act towards one in a given manner.

Well, God knows exactly what we need! And He is the only one who could supply the necessary atonement for our sin – His only Son, Jesus. God’s kindness towards mankind is needed. Unlike us, God executes His kindness perfectly! Without His kindness, there is no hope for our fallen description in Titus 3:3.

Are you willing to recognize you cannot be perfect? No amount of hard work, or dedication to doing the right things, is able to replace the need of God’s act of kindness through His Son.

Do we see the kindness of God in our daily lives? His blessings surround us each moment. Consider the air you breathe; the beauty in nature; the resource of food and water; the protection from a close call of falling, or when you were younger, that near accident on the road. It is God’s kindness for mankind that allows us to see our sin, understand our need, and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Without God’s kindness working in our heart, we would be eternally lost, separated from Him forever.

Romans 2:4 Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?

Romans 11:22 Behold then the kindness and severity of God; to those who fell, severity, but to you, God's kindness, if you continue in His kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off.

Ephesians 2:7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

Consider. The impact of our kindness might be an encouragement to others; however it will have no lasting value on their eternal position. On the flip side, we need the kindness of God which leads to our salvation; His kindness furnishes us with certain hope for the future where once we had no hope at all. God displays His great kindness to us regardless of our undeservedness. We bring nothing to the table; everything is dependent on Him. The verse we just read in Ephesians 2:7 speaks of ‘the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us’.

God’s grace shown through His kindness: His blessings because Jesus paid our debt. Imagine owing billions of dollars to someone and your very life as a slave forever, then you receive notice that not only is your debt paid in full, but you have been left more than you need and the person who paid your debt has given their life for yours. This is unimaginable, yet it is what God did in Jesus for you.

Ephesians 2:1-2 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.

We are not to think lightly of God’s kindness towards us. Titus 3:4 speaks of God’s love for mankind. Have you ever truly considered what God’s love is, or what it means? God’s love, in the context of this verse, is the fondness He has for mankind which is shown through His kindness. God’s love towards man is essential in His grace and mercy given to us through Jesus. God’s love is the catalyst of our salvation. God delights in His creation; He formed man (Genesis 2:7), and rejoiced at the work of His hands. When man sinned, God’s love for us determined a way to repair our relationship with Him. God’s love was shown in the sacrifice of His only Son, to redeem mankind for Himself. This kind of love is more than we can comprehend; it is greater than our mind can grasp.

“God loves man; he delighted in the idea when formed in his own infinite mind, he formed man according to that idea, and rejoiced in the work of his hands; when man fell, the same love induced him to devise his redemption, and God the Saviour flows from God the Philanthropist. Where love is it will be active, and will show itself. So the philanthropy of God appeared, it shone out, in the incarnation of Jesus Christ, and in his giving his life for the life of the world”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Look at our text again –

Titus 3:4-5a But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness,

Titus 2:11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men,

Hebrews 9:26 Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.

It is vitally important to understand who God is, who man is, and the reason we need to be saved. We were created for God’s glory, yet we have inherited a sinful nature from Adam; we are weak and imperfect, controlled by the desire to please ourselves rather than please God in obedience. God is perfect and although He loves us, He cannot tolerate sin. The penalty for our sin is eternal separation from God.

Stop for just a moment and consider what eternal separation from God means – a world void of blessings, goodness, and kindness. It is a world without love; a world filled with sin and hatred, pain and confusion, evil and fear; no breaks, no moments of happiness, no future.

God, because of His love for us, sent His only Son Jesus, to be the perfect sacrifice and payment for our sin. It might be easy to think we are not that bad, yet every thought we have which is prideful, or degrading towards another; every time we fail to reach out and help others, every time we put our own needs first or seek our own praise, we disobey God. Our thoughts and actions are controlled by the power of sin unless we recognize our fallen state and humbly accept the gift of Jesus’ death. No number of good things we might do will save us. It is impossible to save ourselves. Think! Try as hard as you might to only have kind thoughts and actions for the next 24 hours. If you are honest, you will recognize your inability to be sinless. We naturally want our own way.

When we understand God’s love towards us, that we are justified only by His mercy and grace, we will be motivated to love others with compassion and kindness. Our acceptance as God’s children is possible only because of His love; the application of God’s love for us is seen in His Son, through His death and resurrection for mankind; the effect of God’s love gives us His Holy Spirit as our guide, growing the reflection of God’s love in our heart towards others for His glory. Read the beginning of Paul’s letter to Titus.

Titus 1:1-3 Paul, a bond-servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the faith of those chosen of God and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness, in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago, but at the proper time manifested, even His word, in the proclamation with which I was entrusted according to the commandment of God our Savior,

Paul understood God’s love and kindness shown through Jesus. He understood what it meant to be saved from the power of sin in his own life. This understanding moved him to action. How about you – do you understand the kindness and love God offers? Have you recognized your need for a Savior? How has this understanding affected your actions towards others?

2Timothy 1:8-10 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,

1Timothy 2:1-4 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

1Timothy 4:10 For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.

We will dig deeper into Titus 3:5 in our next time together. Until then, contemplate God’s kindness and love for you. Through His Son, salvation is offered to all who will trust in His name – not because it is deserved but because of God’s mercy and grace. The gift of salvation, hope for eternal life in heaven with Jesus and complete forgiveness for sin, is not something we earn; it is a gift freely given and must be freely accepted.

Why Do We Need Jesus?

We need Jesus! He alone is the Truth and Life. Jesus paid for our sins and gives us peace. Because of Him, we have hope; in Him we find strength to continue on. Without Jesus, there is no lasting joy.

Why do we need Jesus?

What did He do?

How did He do it?

What does it mean for us?

Today, we will look at the first verse in this section of scripture. This verse in Titus 3:3, gives us some information of why we need help. It will guide us in our answer to the question of ‘Why we need Jesus’. It says, “For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another”. If we just quickly read this, we might think we cannot relate so therefore, we are not guilty. But look a little closer, be willing to let God examine your heart.

Consider – what does it mean to act foolishly? Have you ever acted foolishly?

The word foolish in this verse means to act without intelligence, to be unwise. I think of the many times I might act without knowing or trying to understand all the facts of a situation. And unfortunately, as we get busier or older, we may not hear every word shared or all of the details, then we can make a comment based on partial information, or what we think was said, which often leads to a foolish comment. Or how about the times you have made a hasty decision based on your feelings at the moment; have you ever regretted a decision you have made?

Have you ever been disobedient? We are disobedient whenever we know what we should do and refuse to do it. For example we are to be kind – do we always share kind words or offer kind actions?

How about being deceived? This means to go astray, to wander, to be seduced, to go out of the way of truth and safety. It is being enticed toward doing the wrong thing. Perhaps this can be akin to peer pressure!

When we read the phrase, “enslaved to various lusts and pleasures”, pay attention to the first word – enslaved. What holds your attention and thoughts captive? This is what you are enslaved to. All sorts of things can catch our attention and become our purpose. However, we are to live for God, no one and nothing should come before Him. Do we readily think of what God wants or what we want; do we truly seek to put His desire for us above our own wants?

“Spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another” seems to be rather drastic. Most of us would quickly say we are not guilty of this! However, think of those times when you might have passed your time thinking thoughts of jealousy, or being hateful in your actions. Have you ever purposefully ignored someone else or perhaps you have thought that their concerns or opinions were ‘stupid’ or unimportant? When we are envious, we think of ourselves more highly than others.

Ephesians 2:1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,

Psalm 14:1 The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, they have committed abominable deeds; There is no one who does good.

Genesis 6:12 God looked on the earth, and behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way upon the earth.

It is easy to understand we all fall short of perfection. No matter how good we might try to be, we get entangled in sin and act unbecomingly towards others and towards God. Because of our weakness and the power of sin in our lives –

We need help, we need Jesus!

Jesus is the truth. Without Jesus we cannot know the truth.

Colossians 2:3 [Christ Himself,] in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

Ephesians 4:21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus,

Jesus gives us life. We are all going to die. Then what? In Jesus, we have eternal life in heaven.

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Jesus paid the penalty for our sins. We just looked at how sinful we are. There is no question we are in deep trouble without a Savior. His name is Jesus!

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Jesus is peace. Look around and it is easy to see the strife in this world! People can get upset and bothered over almost anything. When difficult things happen, often the first reaction is to feel troubled. But with Jesus we can have peace even when we don’t understand.

Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Jesus is our hope.

Jesus gives us strength.

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Jesus is our joy. Everything found in the world only gives temporary happiness because all things pass away and change. But in Jesus we have joy even in the midst of turmoil.

John 15:11 "These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.

What will you do with these truths from the Bible? Do you recognize that you need Jesus?

In our next look at Titus Chapter 3, we will answer the question of what Jesus did for us. Until then, recognize your need and come before Him with a heart of humility. Ask for His forgiveness and be thankful for His love for you.

Show Me, Guide Me

Think of forever and then add more. That is our time in God’s presence. God is our perfect instructor; He will guide us. God is our complete joy. God is our forever promise.

Psalm 16:11 You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.

We are given three promises in this verse.

God will make known to us the path of life,

In His presence is fullness of joy,
In His right hand there are pleasures forever.

Let’s look at these three promises with a careful eye to see, and a heart to understand.

You will make known to me the path of life

First, it is God, Jehovah, the Almighty, who is our source of understanding. Looking back to the beginning of this Psalm, some things we have learned is that God will guard us, He will keep us, He will counsel and instruct us, He is our source of strength, and He is our source of joy.

What does it mean that God will make something known to us?

make known, from the Hebrew word yada, meaning to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); …including observation, care, recognition; …instruction, designation, punishment; …to regard, to have respect, to be sure, to teach, to have understanding.

The path of life – Jesus is the path of life. Through His death, burial, and resurrection, we are redeemed. Remember this is a Psalm of David, a praise to God for His blessings. We read King David’s exultation in the mercies of God in Psalm 21.

Psalm 21:1 O LORD, in Thy strength the king will be glad, and in Thy salvation how greatly he will rejoice! Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and Thou hast not withheld the request of his lips. Selah. For Thou dost meet him with the blessings of good things; Thou dost set a crown of fine gold on his head. He asked life of Thee, Thou didst give it to him, length of days forever and ever.

God will make known to you Himself – He alone is able to cause you to have understanding of who He is. It is only because of Him that you are able to understand your need of His gift of salvation. It is His work in your heart that makes you His child.

As God’s child, you have the privilege of getting to know God through His Word, through His care, and through His instruction.

We know God through understanding given to us by His Holy Spirit and through His discipline in our lives. As we are focused on knowing and understanding God’s will for us, He will lead us in the way which we should go in order to bring glory to His name.

In Your presence is fullness of joy

Presence, paniym, … the face…before…countenance…

Psalm 17:15 As for me, I shall behold Thy face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with Thy likeness when I awake.

1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I shall know fully just as I also have been fully known.

In God’s presence there is exceeding joy. Full and perfect joy and satisfaction. This is the future which awaits those who trust in Him. Fullness of joy cannot be found in earthly things. We look forward to that state of blessedness where our complete focus and purpose is realized in God’s presence alone.

But for now, we can find joy in the blessings we have here. And we can be joyful for the future which awaits us and all those who have placed their trust in Jesus alone for their salvation.

Is there joy in your heart? Do you see God’s blessings in your life right now?

3) In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.

Forever, from the Hebrew word, netsach, a goal, i.e. the bright object at a distance traveled towards; perpetual

Forevermore – from now on and for all time; eternally; ad infinitum

Matthew 5:8 "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Pleasures – “Our joys are empty and defective: But in heaven there is fulness of joy. Our pleasures here are transient and momentary; but those at God's right hand are pleasures for evermore. For they are the pleasures of immortal souls, in the enjoyment of an eternal God”, John Wesley’s Notes.

Think of forever and then add more. That is our time in God’s presence. God is our perfect instructor; He will guide us. God is our complete joy. God is our forever promise.

We have –

God’s protection,

His blessings,

His promises,

His love, and

His faithfulness.

We look forward to the certainty of being in His presence forevermore. How could we not be joy-filled knowing these truths?

Is your focus on the LIGHT at the end of the tunnel?

James 1:17 Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation, or shifting shadow.

Psalm 27:1 ([A Psalm] of David.) The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread?

John 12:46 "I have come [as] light into the world, that everyone who believes in Me may not remain in darkness.

John 8:12 Again therefore Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life."

Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.

Are You Secure?

There is nothing you can do to ‘lose’ your salvation. You can mess up, make a bad decision, sorrow for the things you should have done differently, however, God’s love and gift of salvation to His children is unconditional and permanent.

We have read about God’s protection, His blessings, and the confidence we can have in Him. In Psalm 16:9, the Psalmist proclaimed, “My heart is glad, my glory rejoices, my flesh will dwell securely”. In verse 10, he gives his reason for this statement – because God will not abandon his soul to hell; because Christ arose from the dead.

Psalm 16:10 For Thou wilt not abandon my soul to Sheol; neither wilt Thou allow Thy Holy One to undergo decay.

According to the above scripture, how certain can God’s children be of their future in heaven?

Psalm 16:10 says He will not abandon us to hell. This is a promise to those who have placed their trust in Christ alone. We have all heard stories of animals abandoned and even babies and children abandoned. Abandonment means to leave. We can be abandoned by friends in school, and by family when opinions differ.

There are things that can make us feel abandoned or alone, but the truth is, as God’s children, we are never alone. God will never forsake His children. We can walk away, we can look the other direction and get confused, we can even buy into the lies of Satan for a while, but if we are truly His chosen child, He will always be right there waiting for us. What an incredible comfort this truth is to those who believe. The truth that we will not be abandoned like the stray dog in the field or the newborn baby that is cast aside and not wanted, should fill our heart and soul with ridiculous, intoxicating joy! Heaven is your final destination if you have genuinely accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior.

Just as we cannot earn heaven – it is a gift received by God’s grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone – we cannot un-earn heaven. Think about this! There is nothing you can do to ‘lose’ your salvation. You can mess up, make a bad decision, sorrow for the things you should have done differently, however, God’s love and gift of salvation to His children is unconditional and permanent. I used to have a printed canvas on my wall that read, “The measure of love is to love without measure”. There is no measure of God’s love. It extends beyond our understanding. We don’t deserve it, we cannot earn it, but God chooses to give it.

The word used in Psalm 16:10 for hell is Sheol. It is the Hebrew word for the land of the dead, the infernal regions, the nether regions, the abyss, the abode of the damned, eternal damnation, eternal punishment, perdition, hellfire, fire and brimstone, or Hades. We have all heard of at least one or two of these words for hell. Why do you think there is a debate about heaven and hell? If you want to get into a lively conversation with someone, just ask them if they believe in heaven and hell. I think there is an underlying concern in each of us that heaven and hell is real. The Bible even tells us we will be without excuse. We will not be able to say we did not know; we will not be able to say we did not understand.

Romans 1:18-20 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

The Prophet Isaiah speaks of the blessing of heaven and God’s faithfulness – because of Christ alone, sin is defeated. This is not trivial. Whether you believe in God or not, no matter what church organization you associate yourself with, ignoring what happens when you physically die will not change God’s existence or judgment. Let’s say you don’t believe in heaven or hell, or God, or religion, or you think that when you die you simply cease to exist. You have the freedom to choose what you want to believe. However, if God is real, and His word is Truth, there is a judgment to come which will include all people. Then what? If you have rejected His Son, hell will be your end. If you have accepted His Son, you will live in heaven with Him for eternity.

Isaiah 38:17 "Lo, for my own welfare I had great bitterness; It is You who has kept my soul from the pit of nothingness, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back. "For Sheol cannot thank You, death cannot praise You; those who go down to the pit cannot hope for Your faithfulness.

The first part of Isaiah 38:17 speaks of God’s faithfulness. The second part speaks of the miseries of hell – there is no thankfulness, no praise, and no hope. There will be no opportunity to change your mind! You can say you were wrong, you messed up, you now believe in Him; but it will be too late and separation from God’s love, blessings, and care will be your eternal destiny.

The opposite is Heaven. Those who believe in Jesus and have accepted His gift of salvation need not fear hell because Jesus’ resurrection was victorious over sin and death. In fact, when your physical body dies, you can look forward to the promise of being in heaven with Jesus. The Apostle Paul wrote of his desire to be with Jesus when addressing the church at Philippi.

Philippians 1:22 But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.

The second half of Psalm 16:10 speaks of Jesus’ victory over sin and death. It reads, “Nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay”.

Thy Holy One – one who is the object of God’s favor, and so a recipient of divine grace… Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary

To see corruption or to undergo decay; “Christ's body arose from the grave without seeing corruption, Ac 2:25-28,31; and the bodies of believers shall be delivered from corruption by virtue of their union with him”, Family Bible Notes.

“Into the outer prison of the grave his body might go, but into the inner prison of corruption he could not enter. He who in soul and body was preeminently God's "Holy One," was loosed from the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. This is noble encouragement to all the saints; die they must, but rise they shall, and though in their case they shall see corruption, yet they shall rise to everlasting life”, The Treasury of David.

Psalm 4:3 But know that the LORD has set apart the godly man for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him.

“The victory of our Lord Jesus Christ over death and hell was a victory for himself the head, and for his body the church. Because God has shown him the path of life, he will show it to them also that are united to him by faith. Though their bodies go down to the grave, they will not be left there for ever. When Christ shall appear the second time, all who have died in him shall be raised up incorruptible and glorious”, Family Bible Notes.

1 Corinthians 15:52-54 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, "DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory.

Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose from death so that those who have placed their trust in Him completely for salvation are saved from hell to eternal life. This is the truth that motivated David and all the saints before us.

Are you able to say, “My heart is glad, my soul rejoices, and I am secure for all eternity because God loves me and sent His Son”?

My Heart is Glad

If we understand God as David did, then just a glimpse of God’s goodness, protection, righteousness, and love, will cause us to be overwhelmingly filled with the joy that comes from knowing Him.

Psalm 16:9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; my flesh also will dwell securely.

Psalm 16:9 begins, ‘Therefore’, which means we need to know what came before. Verse 8 says, ‘because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken’. We can even go back to the beginning of Psalm 16.

- v. 1 We have His protection. We can place our hope and trust in Him. We have a personal relationship with Him, a heart and soul that belongs only to Him.

- v. 2 Goodness is in our life because of Him.

- v. 3 We have the privilege of being part of His family, we are encouraged by one another’s faithfulness, and we find delight in the evidence of one another’s growth.

- v. 4 Following anything except the one true God will result in sorrow.

- v. 5 The Lord our God is everything to us. He will sustain us through all circumstances.

- v. 6 The Lord is our Father. Our inheritance lies with Him in heaven. Our future shines bright.

- v. 7 God is our counselor – He has given us His Holy Spirit, who is our spiritual Helper.

The Lord is our strength. He is our security. He is our guide; He is our guard. As His child, how do you respond to this truth?

Verse 9 gives us David’s response: Therefore, because of the truths stated before, his heart is glad and his glory (soul or the whole person) rejoices; his flesh also will dwell securely.

The word ‘glad’, from the Hebrew samach, means to brighten up, to be gleesome, to cheer up, to make merry, to cause to rejoice.

The Psalmist says ‘his glory rejoices’ meaning his soul or his whole person is joyful. He is always full of God’s presence, always considering how to please Him. Some commentaries say this also means his tongue is being used to praise God.

Acts 2:25-28 "For David says of Him, 'I SAW THE LORD ALWAYS IN MY PRESENCE; FOR HE IS AT MY RIGHT HAND, SO THAT I WILL NOT BE SHAKEN. 'THEREFORE MY HEART WAS GLAD AND MY TONGUE EXULTED; MOREOVER MY FLESH ALSO WILL LIVE IN HOPE; BECAUSE YOU WILL NOT ABANDON MY SOUL TO HADES, NOR ALLOW YOUR HOLY ONE TO UNDERGO DECAY. 'YOU HAVE MADE KNOWN TO ME THE WAYS OF LIFE; YOU WILL MAKE ME FULL OF GLADNESS WITH YOUR PRESENCE.'

How big is your God? Can He do all things? If we understand God as David did, then just a glimpse of God’s goodness, protection, righteousness, and love, will cause us to be overwhelmingly filled with the joy that comes from knowing Him. We will be filled with peace in all circumstances because our confidence and hope rests in our Lord and Savior. We need to take the time to stop and remember what we have been given in Christ, what it means to be a child of God.

My husband recalls having a conversation with a gentleman who believes in Hinduism. As my husband explained that God’s love is so great for us that He sent His Son to die for us, the man answered emphatically that His god is so great that he would in no way choose to die. Think! Is it more difficult to lay aside your deity to save the souls of those you love, or to magnify yourself and watch others suffer and perish? True love, true greatness, willingly places others first to serve them, it is not selfish and does not seek to control.

Think of your past week. What has been filling your heart?

Consider what it means to be under the influence of something. The definition of rejoice in verse 9 can literally mean ‘to spin around’; ‘under the influence of any violent emotion’. Form a mental picture of this – someone spinning around with their arms outstretched – what a wonderful emotion this portrays. The word violent is typically associated with negative things. It also can mean an ‘emotionally intense, strong feeling; passionate, powerful’.

What, in your life, is powerful enough to control your thinking and your actions?

As God’s children we should be ridiculously joyful, completely filled by Him as we come before Him in worship, fully intoxicated by His love for us and His power in our lives and in the world.

“My glory – my tongue…declares my inward joy…the outward demonstrations of it”, John Wesley’s Notes on the Old and New Testaments.

Psalm 30:12 That [my] soul may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to Thee forever.

Psalm 57:7-11 My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises! Awake, my glory; awake, harp and lyre, I will awaken the dawn! I will give thanks to Thee, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to Thee among the nations. For Thy lovingkindness is great to the heavens, and Thy truth to the clouds. Be exalted above the heavens, O God; [Let] Thy glory [be] above all the earth.

The last part of Psalm 16:9 reads, “my flesh also will dwell securely”.

“Also will dwell [shall rest], means to reside or permanently stay; to abide, to continue, to remain, to rest.

The Psalmist has the certain hope that when he dies his flesh will be resurrected to a living hope. His salvation is secure.

How secure are you in Christ’s love for you, in His redemptive plan?

Do you have a certain hope and assurance of your salvation?

Psalm 108:1 My heart is steadfast, O God; I will sing, I will sing praises, even with my soul.

“Oh, for such holy faith in the prospect of trial and of death! It is the work of faith, not merely to create a peace which passeth all understanding, but to fill the heart full of gladness until the tongue, which, as the organ of an intelligent creature, is our glory, bursts forth in notes of harmonious praise. Faith gives us living joy, and bestows dying rest”, Treasury of David.

Because of Jesus …

In the first seven verses of Psalm 16, we have learned –

God is our refuge,

All goodness is because of Him,

We are to delight in serving one another,

Denying God will end in sorrow,

We have an inheritance in heaven,

God gives us instruction, and

God is our secure foundation.

These blessings assume we have bowed to Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, having placed our sole/soul dependance on the work of His death and resurrection for the payment of our sin. The warning of sorrow is for those who have denied God’s truths. The instruction in God’s word is given as a road map, directing God’s children how to live in a manner which brings Him glory. In an ever-changing world, God is our solid Rock, the hope on which we stand.

David is certain of the Lord’s counsel and instruction in his life.

How does he gain this assurance?

Psalm 16:8 I have set the LORD continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

First, David is focused on God continually.

Have you ever had something you could just not stop thinking about? Sometimes a tune might be going over and over in your mind or perhaps something someone said or did. In any case, these things present themselves with great frequency, almost without interruption. Here’s another way to think about this. You’re in a public place and amongst all the people; a fly decides you are the one it will bother. It persistently buzzes around your face as you swat at it, but it continues to bother you. This is a negative application of persistence, but the idea is the relentless reminder of its presence. When David says he has set the Lord continually before him, he is thinking upon God literally all the time. God’s truth is always before him, affecting each thought, each action, and every decision. God is his focus.

“ … so a faithful Christian man, whether he abound in wealth or be pinched with poverty, whether he be of high or low degree in this world, ought continually to have his faith and hope surely built and grounded upon Christ, and to have his heart and mind fast fixed and settled in Him, … never to lose sight and view of Christ, never to give over faith, hope, and trust in Him”, Robert Cawdray, The Treasury of David.

Isaiah 26:8-9a Indeed, [while following] the way of Thy judgments, O LORD, we have waited for Thee eagerly; Thy name, even Thy memory, is the desire of [our] souls. At night my soul longs for Thee, indeed, my spirit within me seeks Thee diligently;

Remember, the first verse of Psalm 16 says ‘for I take refuge in Thee’. God is our protection, our hope, and our strength. Our trust belongs to Him alone. But we must stay focused on Him. We walk away from the hedge of protection He gives to us when we follow our own will instead of His. In verse 8 of this Psalm, David knows he will remain in God’s strength because he has set his focus on Him continually.

Think back upon decisions you have made, words you have shared, thoughts you have entertained, and actions you have chosen that have not honored God. In every instance, you should be able to recognize that you were not seeking His guidance sincerely. We have a foolproof plan of protection from being caught up in sin. However, when our selfish desires beckon and we look away from the Light for just a moment – that is when we fail. When we neglect the necessity of our involvement in a church body, true Biblical teaching, accountability, fellowship, and loving correction from fellow believers, we leave ourselves vulnerable to the offerings of the world. Consider, most individuals don’t choose to lie, cheat, or steal, or even have an affair, instead they gradually convince themselves these things are okay, they justify sin because they are weak and have left themselves unprotected against Satan’s manipulation. Pride takes over and we begin to think, ‘I would never do that’. If you depend on your own strength, you are wide open to failure, and without Christ you will fall into the practice of sin just as the world does.

Consider, do you have close friends who will hold you accountable and ask hard questions?

Have you gradually pulled yourself away from fellowship thinking you don’t need it?

Do you convince yourself you are doing okay on your own?

Are you unable to forgive others for their offenses against you, and you remain isolated because of this?

In all these situations, if you answer yes, you are doing a good job at leaving yourself vulnerable and you are thinking too highly of yourself when you say you are okay without fellowship and serving alongside other believers. There is a reason God set up our church family with each individual offering different strengths and talents. Together we make a whole.

In John Wesley’s Notes regarding the words ‘I have set’, he says it means ‘I have always presented him [the Lord] to my mind, as my witness and judge, as my patron and protector’… Christ as man did always set his father's will and glory before him.

Acts 2:25, “For David says of Him, ‘I WAS ALWAYS BEHOLDING THE LORD IN MY PRESENCE; FOR HE IS AT MY RIGHT HAND, THAT I MAY NOT BE SHAKEN’.

We are to always consider God in all circumstances. Notice the constant reliance upon God. This is different than only seeking His help when we encounter trials or praising His name when we recognize blessings. We need to be discerning in our words, thoughts, and actions. For instance, my husband was a college professor for almost forty years. He always left his office door open when he met with a female student. He never wanted to give any appearance that would mar his Christian profession.

“David did not by fits and starts set the Lord before him; but he "always" set the Lord before him in his course; he had his eye upon the Lord, and so much the Hebrew word imports: I have equally set the Lord before me; that is the force of the original word, that is, I have set the Lord before me, at one time as well as another, without any irregular affections or passions, etc. In every place, in every condition, in every company, in every employment, and in every enjoyment, I have set the Lord equally before me; and this raised him, and this will raise any Christian, by degrees, to a very great height of holiness”, Thomas Brooks in The Treasury of David.

If you are of an older generation, you may remember the commercial for Calgon, a foaming milk bath. In the 1970-1980’s, the “Calgon Take Me Away” campaign focused on a moment of relaxation from the world’s cares. These advertisements were very successful, in large part because people could relate to the stresses of life. The flesh response to trouble is to be shaken and become disengaged; to run away from circumstances when it becomes difficult. The believer’s response to trouble is to be strengthened in their dependence on Christ and trust in His protection and plan.

The example we have from the Psalmist is to set our sights on the Lord. Christ, while on this earth, kept his eyes and purpose set on His Father’s will. “David might perhaps have some regard to his own hope and experience in these verses: but doubtless Christ was especially intended. – As man, He relied on the power, truth, love and promise of the Father: therefore He was not moved in His deepest sufferings; but “for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, and despised the shame”, Thomas Scott.

How easy is it for us to lose our focus on what is truly important?

Setting our eyes on Jesus is a purposed effort. It is a choice we can make because His Spirit is working in us giving us the strength and desire to do God’s will. When something doesn’t go as expected we can either focus on the problem or we can remember our true purpose on this earth. If we are determined to honor God, we will look at the perfect example of His Son. He came to serve – not Himself, but others, and to do the will of His Father in heaven. Jesus is the example of holiness we are to follow.

If we constantly keep our eyes on Jesus, we will not fall off the course He has intended for us. There is great value in receiving counsel from God’s word and God’s children.

God has a perfect design for His creation and His children. Consider this, a marathon runner keeps their eyes on the goal of finishing. Along the trail, they may become weary, they may be injured, or even take a wrong turn. Those who finish keep going, they do not lose sight of the purpose and they push forward through all kinds of difficulty. We can trust that God will guard our steps and give us the strength to follow Him.

The things we put in our mind often are the things which affect us most. When my thoughts are on Jesus, my heart will be turned towards His promises, His faithfulness, His strength, and His purpose for my life.

Isaiah 26:8 Indeed, [while following] the way of Thy judgments, O LORD, we have waited for Thee eagerly; Thy name, even Thy memory, is the desire of [our] souls.

When my eyes are on God as my protector, I will not be shaken; with my eyes on God as my purpose, I will stay the course. Are you willing to ask the Holy Spirit moment by moment to be your guide in all Truth and wisdom? What do the priorities in your life say about you? Are there things that have captured your interest and are bigger and more important than your relationship with God?

Psalm 73:24-25 With Thy counsel Thou wilt guide me, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven [but Thee]? And besides Thee, I desire nothing on earth.

Second, David gains the assurance of God’s help through God’s strength. Because the Lord is at his right hand, he will not be shaken.

Being at the right hand of someone implies strength. God is the strength that causes David to stay on course, to be steadfast. With God’s presence and His help, we can be certain that we are safe and secure. As God’s children we can trust in Him to guard us. When we stay focused on Him, desiring to please Him in all things, we will not fail.

Psalm 73:23 Nevertheless I am continually with Thee; Thou hast taken hold of my right hand.

Psalm 62:6-7 He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be shaken. On God my salvation and my glory [rest]; the rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.

Psalm 121:5 The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade on your right hand.

Through all circumstances we are to keep God’s will and glory in our sight. We have the assurance of His presence and help in our trials to strengthen and guide us. We are promised a future in heaven with our Savior and Lord.

The Lord is our confidence on earth and our certain hope of heaven.

Psalm 62:5-7 My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him.

All because of Jesus.

Trusting in our Faithful Creator

So often we can get caught up in thinking things should be a certain way; we become discouraged because something didn’t happen like we wanted, or we are surprised because circumstances seem unfair or overwhelming. We forget God’s perfect love for us in providing all that is needed for our sake and His glory.

1Peter 4:17-19 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? AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Chapter 4 of 1Peter began with the suffering of Christ and ends with the honor we have as His children to suffer for His glory. These last three verses continue to expand on the blessings of being God’s children, and even though difficulties may arise because of our faith, the outcome is our righteousness in Christ. But what about those who are not of the household of God? Our hearts should be moved towards compassion. God allows His children to be disciplined through adversity yet continues to care for them; those who are not His will suffer far more, facing eternal destruction.

For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God. We are to expect judgment. The Greek word used is krima, meaning a decision - the function or the effect, for or against; avenge, condemned, condemnation, damnation, and judgment. “… the severe trial which would determine character”, … “trials test the value of our profession”, Barnes. If we are not guilty, having trusted in the work of Christ on the cross, then the trials we face will be used for our correction and instruction, to strengthen our faith and trust in God, for our sanctification.

1Corinthians 11:32 But when we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord so that we will not be condemned along with the world.

1Peter 1:7 so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

… and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

To those who are guilty, having rejected Jesus, the trials that come upon them are for their ultimate destruction resulting in condemnation for eternity. Compare the outcome for both the saved and unsaved:

1Peter 4:13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

2Thessalonians 1:8-9 dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,

The choice – eternal blessing or endless pain and suffering.

“What shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? How miserable, how dreadful will be the end of all those that would not obey the gospel! Implying, that they shall be in a much worse condition if God take them in hand. If he spare not his children, much less will he his enemies. If the one sip of the cup of God's wrath, the other shall wring out the dregs, and drink them”, Ps 75:8. Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

Consider. Judgment will happen. Will we be approved by God, having a genuine faith and trust in Jesus? Or will our ‘faith’ be discredited, showing us to be hypocrites, disobedient to God’s word?

Romans 2:5-10 But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who WILL RENDER TO EACH PERSON ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS: to those who by perseverance in doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life; but to those who are selfishly ambitious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation. There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek, but glory and honor and peace to everyone who does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Matthew 25:32-34 "All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

Consider. A good parent would not allow their child to be undisciplined. They would correct their mistakes, punish their sin, and bring to notice their unyielding ways. All because the parents know that their loving guidance will prove to help them in the future. Think how much more our perfect loving Father will correct his children who wander off the path of righteousness. There is solace in knowing that Jesus paid the price for our sin. Even through trials, we are assured that God’s hand will hold us secure, that His love is victorious, and we can endure in His strength.

There is no lasting security in anything other than the name of Jesus.

1Peter 4:18 AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER?

Peter uses a quote from Proverbs 11:31, If the righteous will be rewarded in the earth, how much more the wicked and the sinner!

The Christians were to travel through many perils, and the circumstances around them would render difficulties at every turn, yet those who prevailed would be saved because of God’s perfect plan. Think of Jesus life, death, and resurrection. Only through His suffering could any be called righteous. Think of your own testimony and the circumstances which led you to accept Jesus as your Savior. Often, it is through problems which seem heavier than a mere human can possibly bear. If it is through so much trial that those who are inclined to truth are saved, imagine the suffering that will come upon those who reject Jesus.

Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, "Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God."

1Peter 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;

Read this remark penned by Spurgeon, “A solemn question! Answer it, each one of you, if you are still unsaved. Where will you appear? Oh, be wise, and fly to Jesus; enlist beneath his banner, cost you what it may. May the Lord lead you to do so”.

1Peter 5:8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

1Corinthians 10:12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall.

The bottom line: For those who insist on following sin there is awaiting eternal condemnation. But for those seeking to follow God, even though tested, they can trust in His perfect plan.

1Peter 4:19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Psalm 31:5 Into Your hand I commit my spirit; you have ransomed me, O LORD, God of truth.

2Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.

Psalm 37:5-6 Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your judgment as the noonday.

Are you confident in God’s faithfulness, that He will guide you through all difficulties for His glory?

1Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.

Going back to the beginning of this Chapter, Christians are to expect trouble yet also can expect the protection of God’s hand on their lives here on earth and for eternity. In the meantime, we are to love one another, encourage one another, be hospitable towards one another, and serve one another with the gifts and strengths God has given, knowing this is God’s plan and His will prevails. We are to make certain our speech glorifies God and even through trials we are to keep on rejoicing, looking to God’s future glory and the promise of our salvation. We will suffer difficulties because of our union with Christ but we are to make certain our suffering is not of our own sin and waywardness.

“In this great work, watchfulness, prayer; faith, and obedience, are indispensably necessary. He who does not walk with God here cannot see nor enjoy him hereafter”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Carefully read 1Peter 4:19 again –

Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

When I read this, I am reminded that I simply do not need to understand everything – the why, the what, the how or even how come. Where I need to put my energy and thoughts is in trusting that God not only has all things in His hands but that He is doing, and will do, everything according to His plan, at the perfect time, in the perfect way, for His ultimate glory and our good. So often we can get caught up in thinking things should be a certain way; we become discouraged because something didn’t happen like we wanted, or we are surprised because circumstances seem unfair or overwhelming. We forget God’s perfect love for us in providing all that is needed for our sake and His glory.

Matthew 7:9-11 “Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? “Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give a snake, will he? “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!

Romans 8:28;31 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. … What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?

Psalm 56:10-11 In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise, in God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?

2Corinthians 5:5-7 Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge. Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord-- for we walk by faith, not by sight--

To entrust our souls to God means that we present ourselves to Him for protection. The KJV reads, “commit the keeping of their souls”. This is a continuous action – keep on committing, and is a banking term as in ‘to deposit’. This same term is used in 1Timothy 1:18, 2Timothy 2:2, and Luke 23:46.

1Timothy 1:18-19 This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.

2Timothy 2:2 The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

Luke 23:46 And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, "Father, INTO YOUR HANDS I COMMIT MY SPIRIT." Having said this, He breathed His last.

Be reminded of who it is you are trusting – your faithful Creator. Jesus’ example was to trust the Father.

When I read this, calm enters my soul. Rest, peace, and assurance flood out any thoughts of confusion, anxiousness, and fear. Our faithful Creator, our Father, the One who knows us best and died for us because He loves us more than we can imagine, is taking care of us. We are unable to save ourselves; we are unable to save our souls; God alone is able.

We can place ourselves confidently in our Creator’s hands. God will always fulfill His promises to those who are seeking to follow Him. As we continue trying to do what is right, serving one another in His strength, we can be certain God will take care of the rest.

“As our Creator we may come to him, and look to him for his protection and care. He made us. He had a design in our creation. He so endowed us that we might live for ever, and so that we might honour and enjoy him. He did not create us that we might be miserable; nor does he wish that we should be. He formed us in such a way that, if we choose, we may be eternally happy. In that path in which he has appointed us to go, if we pursue it, we may be sure of his aid and protection. If we really aim to accomplish the purposes for which we were made, we may be certain that he will show himself to be a "faithful Creator;" one in whom we may always confide”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

“A faithful creator; able and willing to sustain, comfort, and bless them under all trials, and in due time to save them with an everlasting salvation”, Family Bible Notes.

John Wesley’s Notes gives a good summary of 1Peter 4:19 –

Let them that suffer according to the will of God- Both for a good cause, and in a right spirit.

Commit to him their souls- (Whatever becomes of the body) as a sacred depositum.

In well doing- Be this your care, to do and suffer well: He will take care of the rest.

As unto a faithful Creator- In whose truth, love, and power, ye may safely trust.

Lord, keep us from sin, help us to remain focused on doing Your will through serving others well, let us not become distracted by sin around us or the ill-meaning of others, preserve us in holiness for Your glory. Whatever we may suffer here on earth, let us remember it is temporary; our eternal home awaits.

“Observe here, 1. A cautionary direction given, that in all our sufferings we take care that we suffer according to the will of God: that is, for what is according to God's will, either to be believed or practised by us, for asserting and maintaining the purity of the Christian doctrine and worship; and when our patience under such sufferings is as extensive and intensive as God requires, when our patience is as large and as lasting as our troubles, then may we be said to suffer according to the will of God.

Observe, 2. The special privilege allowed to such sufferers as suffer according to the will of God: they may commit the keeping of their souls to God in well-doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Learn hence, 1. That when men suffer really and truly for well-doing, they may with confidence and great assurance commit their lives, and all that is dear unto them, to the special care of the divine providence; either God will keep us from, or support us under, trials, when we thus commit ourselves to him”, William Burkitt New Testament.

‘For I am not ashamed’

Unless we are mindful of doing what pleases God, we will naturally do what pleases our self and senses.

Let’s be reminded of the preceding verses.

1Peter 4:12-14 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

In our previous studies, we learned that we should most definitely expect challenges as followers of Christ. When we recognize what Jesus did for us, we have the opportunity through our own difficulties, because of faith in God’s grace, to offer up our lives as a sacrifice to Him. This should cause us to rejoice as we are assured of our relationship with God as His children and look forward to our future in Heaven with Him. The next two verses in this section of scripture continue building on the truths Peter has written.

Peter 4:15-16 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name.

We are to make certain that our suffering is not because of our own wrong choices. We can bring all sorts of unhappiness and difficulty into our lives simply because we are not careful to consider our actions. The admonition Peter uses is definitive – ‘make sure’, or in the KJV, ‘but let’. This is like saying, ‘You should in no way’, or ‘let none of you’. It is an intense instruction towards Christians. Notice there is no possibility of an exception using this imperative. Our text reads, ‘make sure that none of you’. This is important; this is absolutely necessary and worthy of our attention.

We are prone to explain our wrong behavior with the word ‘but’ or ‘they did …’. This puts blame for our sin on someone or something else. We are unable to control circumstances and others’ actions; however we can, in God’s strength, control our own behavior. We are to take special care that we do not cause our own problems brought on because of our own misguided doings. Some people can become highly creative in weaving all kinds of excuses and stories in order to make their own failures look like someone else’s problem. The reality is that God always knows the entire truth and our motivation.

How do you ‘make sure’ of something?

What parameters do you place around yourself to keep from causing your own problems?

“But let not any one of you, who have the honour to bear the Christian name, …”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

The quote above causes me to remember who I am representing. Ultimately, if I call myself a Believer, my life should reflect the character of one who is following Christ. It truly is an honor to live for Him; a privilege to be a Christian and to uphold the laws of God.

1Peter 2:12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Consider. We may not be able to avoid suffering as a Christian, however we must avoid sin which causes suffering. We must be purposed and intentioned to act according to God’s ways. The emphasis is that we make a point of doing the right thing at all times. You can gather that this behavior does not always automatically happen. If we are unprepared and have our head somewhere up in the clouds, then we are likely to act without thinking. Unless we are mindful of doing what pleases God, we will naturally do what pleases our self and senses. We will answer criticism with harsh words and may even show our anger with physical gestures. Think of a child stomping their foot or someone clenching their fists.

The apostle addresses specific problems prevalent to the culture and lifestyle he saw around him. These were the obvious pitfalls at that time. This does not mean other forms of sin are excluded. In other words, we may be able to say we are not a murderer, thief, evildoer, or troublesome meddler; but this does not negate the general application of Peter’s admonition. Our words and actions should glorify God’s name.

We’ll quickly go through each defined behavior listed so that we are complete in our study. Murderer is exactly what we would think – it is homicide; an unlawful killing of another human being. A thief is someone who steals, who rips off another person, who takes something without the owner’s consent. An evildoer is a general term encompassing the first two descriptions of murderer and thief – basically we are not to be part of anything that will cause the hand of justice to come down upon us. This would include any criminal act, someone who is wicked or guilty of injustice and wrong. When we suffer as an evildoer, we choose to go against public law; punishment is our own fault, it is deserved.

If we repeatedly and intentionally go against God, we must take a critical look at our own heart motivation. Someone living for God will seek to glorify Him in all things. We will make mistakes and at times fail in our thoughts and actions, but this will not be our lifestyle. Instead, we will be characterized by seeking to follow God, asking forgiveness when we fail.

Think! How are you doing? Are your words and actions – including attitude and thoughts – pleasing to God?

Matthew 15:19 "For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders.

Mark 7:21 "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries,

The last action we are warned against in 1Peter 4:15 is being a ‘troublesome meddler’. Basically, this is being a busybody in other people’s affairs. This may hit a bit closer to home. Whereas we might easily consider ourselves having no problems with purposefully breaking the law, most of us have at one time or another meddled with other’s concerns. Being a troublesome meddler is inspecting someone else’s decisions, often at the expense of paying attention to our own. Consider your thoughts, are they filled with things that don’t really concern you? Do you involve yourself in the matters of others, and tell them how to manage things?

We are not here to judge others; God does the judging. We are not here to point out all the injustices we see, especially those of unbelievers. We are not to be consumed with letting others know how they might have done better. Let’s not become so consumed with figuring out the intentions of others that we neglect to be mindful of our own. Have you been in a situation where someone shares gossip in the form of a prayer request or concern? Often, we do not need all the details of a circumstance dumped on us. Consider asking yourself what the purpose is of sharing something? Is it to edify or build up or to make yourself look better or injure someone’s reputation?

1Th 4:11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you,

2Th 3:11 For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies.

1Ti 5:13 At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention.

Our text moves on to verse 16, explaining how we are to respond to suffering as a Christian.

1Peter 4:16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name.

The words ‘but if’ suggest it is possible that Christians will suffer. Let’s look at what is meant by suffering as a Christian. Most of us would be able to place a definition on suffering, although how we might define suffering is probably a bit different and less intrusive than what was experienced when this epistle was written. This same word for ‘suffer’ is used in Acts 1:3, and is translated “passion”, of the suffering of Christ. Christians were persecuted directly because of their faith. The Jews had been subject to the Law and had built up a hierarchy of priests and religious leaders. Anyone contradicting the long-accepted sacrifices and rituals was seen as a threat. In fact, to say the Law was no longer needed was a direct contempt against Judaism. Yet Christ had come to abolish the Law and those who had left Judaism understood that faith alone in His death and resurrection was the only way to be saved. If you step back for a moment and place yourself in this volatile environment, you can almost feel the clashing of beliefs.

At this time in American society, we are not forced to follow one belief or another. We still have the freedom to choose Biblical Christianity without experiencing much discrimination, if any. Yet, in small ways, consider how you might experience difficulty because you are a Christian. Perhaps you have felt ostracized by friends or family because you no longer accept the same traditions. Even worse, you follow the Bible as your guide for living and there are clear instructions on what is right and wrong – many of which do not fit our culture today. In any case, whether we are speaking of Christians of old or modern-day, we are not to be ashamed of who we are and who we follow.

How would you describe someone who is ashamed? Looking up the definition in our English dictionary, we read it is “someone who is embarrassed or guilty because of their actions”. If we are innocent, there is no need to hang our head low or hide. Now consider, if we are utterly convinced Jesus is our Lord and Savior and that He is the only way to our redemption, then why would we be embarrassed? Why would we feel guilty? ‘Ashamed’ translated from the original text, means ‘to have a feeling of fear or shame which prevents a person from doing a thing’. This definition also holds the possibility of being ashamed before the Lord Jesus at His judgment seat or being ashamed of suffering as a Christian. Are we ashamed to be called a Believer? This begs us to contemplate if we are truly sold out to Christ. When push comes to shove, where do we stand? What do we proclaim? Have you ever backed away from an opportunity because of fear of what someone might think of you?

“But is to glorify God in this name.” We are to glorify God in our representation of Him. This means He is praised, and He is honored; His attributes, His actions and His name are lifted high. It is often easy for us to think ‘out of sight, out of mind’ when it comes to our decisions and the words we share. We seemingly think we place God in a pocket only to be taken out when we desire His blessings or need His intervention. It is good for us to remember there is never a moment in which we are separated from God in our relationship with Him. We are not to be ashamed of God – who He is and what He has done. We should be ashamed when our fear of man takes precedence over our representation of Jesus. We should be ashamed when we choose to follow a path of sin rather than live pleasing to our Savior. This is what the Apostle Peter was trying to get across to those who were suffering because of their faith. We cannot control the responses and actions of others, but we can trust in God’s strength which allows us to represent Him well, through good times and the not-so-good times. Adversity allows us an opportunity to give glory to God’s name as we stand firm in our faith and pursue righteousness. God’s holiness sets a standard for us to follow.

Matthew 5:16 “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Revelation 15:4 “Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy; for ALL THE NATIONS WILL COME AND WORSHIP BEFORE YOU, FOR YOUR RIGHTEOUS ACTS HAVE BEEN REVEALED.”

1Peter 4:11 Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as 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.

Why do you call yourself a Christian? A Christian is a Christ-follower. Each of us is identified by the name given to us at birth. Many of us are identified by our strengths, likes, talents, character, and position. If you were to make a list of those things which would describe you, what would we read? Would Christian, Believer, God’s child, be at the top of your list? In fact, being a Christian should not only be at the top of our list but should be the overriding value of everything else which describes our character. We are to live in Christ; “Yet not I but through Christ in me”.

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

We Have a Perfect Guide

we do not need to wander around in this world feeling lost, with no purpose. We do not need to live in confusion wondering why we are here.

Psalm 73:24-26 With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Psalm 73 begins with the writer’s statements of confidence found in God and the blessings that come from God. Following this, we read a description of the Psalmist’s conflict and temptations. The Psalmist’s conclusion is to confess his own struggles and turn towards God’s grace, God’s guidance, and the focus of God’s glory.

Today we’ll begin to look at the truths found in verses 24 through 26.

God will guide His children.
We have a certain hope for our future.
The things of earth are nothing compared to riches in heaven.
Our flesh and heart may [will] fail.
God is our strength.
God is our inheritance forever.

Let’s look at the first two truths in verse 24:

God will guide His children, and

There is hope for our future.

With Your counsel You will guide me. God guiding us means He leads us, He governs us, and even makes our paths straight. Do you remember playing ‘follow the leader’ when you were a kid? The idea of this simple game was to first choose a leader, then line up and follow and repeat the leader’s words and actions as closely as possible. Sometimes it was easy and other times, it was difficult to perform and remember the exact patterns. Psalm 73:24 tells us it is God’s counsel – His plan, His advice, and His purpose – which guides us.

In order to follow God we must be familiar with His instructions to us. In other words, what does His word say? What are His commands? God’s word is His written testimony to the world of who He is, what He has done, and what He will do. God’s word gives us the account of His creation of the world, His love for mankind, and His plan for the future. In it, He tells us how we can live in obedience to Him. If we do not keep our eyes and focus on God’s truths then we will have trouble knowing what He wants us to do.

Think! Have you ever been lost? How did you feel? Before we had map programs on our phones, our maps were printed on paper. We used to pick them up at the local auto club, or you could purchase a book of maps called a Thomas Guide, at a convenience store. These maps were good for the most part but because they had to be updated, but it took time to print new editions, roads and addresses were frequently missing. Real time maps have improved but they also are not perfect! I am certain each of you has been in a vehicle driving around in circles, trying to find a particular street or address!

Here's another example of being lost. When my first son was young, he had the habit of wandering off in a store. I once watched him walk away from me, and I let him go (with my eyes on him, of course), in order to teach him to stay close. When he realized he was lost, he became terribly upset; I then went to his rescue, and he never wandered again! All of us become a bit rattled when we become lost! None of us likes that feeling of uncertainty. There is good news – we do not need to wander around in this world feeling lost, with no purpose. We do not need to live in confusion wondering why we are here.

Thankfully, God’s children have His promise of guidance through the truths in His word and the prompting of His Holy Spirit. If your complete trust is placed in Jesus, you have a personal guide and a written manual of instructions for your life! No need to wonder what this is all about, or what we are to do next. We are here to glorify the One who created us and sustains us.

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

Psalm 48:14 For such is God, our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death.

Isaiah 58:11 "And the LORD will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.

“Thou shalt guide me: as thou hast kept me hitherto in all my trials, so I am assured thou wilt lead me still into right paths, and keep me from wandering or straying from thee, or falling into mischief. … With thy counsel; partly, by thy gracious providence, executing thy purpose of mercy to me, and watching over me; partly, by thy word, which thou wilt open mine eyes to understand, as Psalm 119:18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.; and principally, by thy Holy Spirit, sanctifying and directing me in the whole course of my life.” Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

If you are a follower of Jesus as your Savior and Lord, you will be able to look back at your life and see His hand guiding you. It is His work in us which allows us to recognize and avoid snares and temptations that may lead us into sin. Looking back to the beginning of this Psalm, we can see that the writer struggled with choosing his own way instead of following God. In his conclusion of this Psalm, he recognizes His trust and understanding must be put solely in the hands of God, following God’s direction alone.

Psalm 143:8,10 Let me hear Your lovingkindness in the morning; for I trust in You; teach me the way in which I should walk; for to You I lift up my soul. … Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; let Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.

“Can we have a better guide? When a guide has been well recommended to us by those who have tried him, it is our wisdom to place ourselves unreservedly in his hands; and if he say our way lies to the right, it would show our folly to say we were determined to go to the left”. John Gadsby.

Think! Many of us have taken a tour at one time or another. Perhaps you have had a guided tour of a museum, or were at a famous landmark, or even in a foreign land. Typically, you pay a sum of money to be led through an area and listen to information given by your guide. Sometimes, the guides are truly knowledgeable and helpful and at other times, we may be disappointed with their lack of information. God is perfect in His guidance; we can place our complete trust in Him.

“His actual help is necessary to direct, quicken, strengthen, protect and defend us. In our way to heaven, we need not only a rule and path, but a guide. The rule is the law of God; but the guide is the Spirit of God”. Thomas Manton.

God will guide His children.

We have a certain hope for our future. Read the second half of Psalm 73:24, And afterward receive me to glory.

This life on earth is only the beginning of our purpose which is to glorify God in heaven for eternity. Here, we struggle with difficulty all around us, one day we will be received into heaven. As God’s child, you have a promise for your future. The certainty of being in heaven with Jesus, propels us to move forward through life following His guidance.

“Afterward. After all our toil in labour and duty, after all our crosses and afflictions, after all our doubts and fears that we should never receive it; after all the hiding of his face, and clouds and darkness that have passed over us; and after all our battles and fightings for it, oh, then how seasonably will the reception of this reward come in: Thou wilt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. O blessed afterwards; when all your work is done, when all your doubts and fears are over, and when all your battles are fought; then, O then, ye shall receive the reward”. John Spalding.

The Psalmist had the assurance of being in God’s presence forever. This understanding was a powerful tool in his determination to keep on keeping on even in the midst of struggle. We can easily see that sometimes those who follow evil seem to prosper, and those who seek to do good seem to suffer. The Psalmist was disturbed with the prosperity of the wicked around him; he was concerned to see that they seemed to have an abundance of good things, even in their pride and sin. Yet, he was reminded of God’s perfect knowledge and power and chose to set his sights on God’s word. In Psalm 73:23, the verse preceding the one we are studying, it says, “Nevertheless I am continually with You; You have taken hold of my right hand”. So even though it seems that some people are prospering in their sin, we need to remember that our true reward is in Heaven, and we need to live accordingly. Never mind the state of others, instead be mindful of what you are to do as God’s child and the future He has promised.

Do you have the same assurance as the Psalmist? Are you able to claim, “With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory”?

One commentary puts it this way, “All doubts are silenced in confidence of divine guidance and future glory”. Jamieson-Fausset-Brown.

1Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known.

We are unable to fully understand God’s thoughts and ways. What we do know is that God is perfectly loving and just in all things.

“And afterward. "Afterward!" Blessed word. We can cheerfully put up with the present, when we foresee the future. What is around us just now is of small consequence, compared with afterward.” Treasury of David.

John 14:3 "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.

2Corinthians 5:1 For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

1Peter 1:3-9 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

Psalm 73:24 With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory.

God will guide His children; we have a certain hope for our future. All praise, glory, and honor to the One who loves us far beyond anything we might imagine.

Consider it all Joy!

We may be dishonored and rejected by the world, however we are honored to belong to Christ, to be received by Him, and to give glory to His name. … I can think of no better protection or encouragement than to know I am held in God’s hand and given His grace to accomplish His will.

1Peter 4:14

General Review – who is Peter writing to? Why?

Read 1Peter1:1-7.

1Peter 4 follows the instruction given in 1Peter 3 to live in a way pleasing and acceptable to God, regardless of negative feedback. We are ambassadors for Christ, and we will experience persecution of some sort, however we are to continuously respond in a manner which represents Jesus’ example, keeping our focus on our purpose – to glorify God – and our reward, which is eternal life with our Savior.

Peter then gives a charge to believers to serve and love one another with the unique and individual strengths God has supplied each of His children. The reminder is to not be surprised by the challenges and difficulties that enter into our lives, but rather see them as an opportunity to prove our faith, and in that assurance, have an attitude of rejoicing.

1Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

Now, on to our text. We will pick up where we left off in 1Peter Chapter 4.

1Peter 4:14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

No one likes to be made fun of; we want to be accepted and liked. To be ‘reviled’ in this verse means to be defamed; railed at, chided, taunted, reproached, and to suffer. If we think back again to the recipients of Peter’s instructions, they did not fit in with the norm. Perhaps you can imagine being the person who is different than the rest. When we think or speak differently, dress differently, and act differently, we are often exposed to ridicule. Consider being made fun of, or in the case of Peter’s audience, to be persecuted, for your faith. There would be a struggle to remain steadfast. Yet, the instruction was to consider their suffering as a blessing. Adversity was an opportunity to prove their faith and move forward in the strength God supplied. We see the Apostle’s encouragement threaded through his entire epistle. You can almost picture him coming alongside individuals, patting them on the shoulder, praying with them, reminding them of their commission, and then sending them off to continue their work for the Kingdom.

1Peter 2:19 For this finds favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a person bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

1Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

Isaiah 51:7 "Listen to Me, you who know righteousness, a people in whose heart is My law; do not fear the reproach of man, nor be dismayed at their revilings.

I think of peer pressure. This can be positive or negative. In either case, there is an influence to be like others. Sometimes it is not so difficult to stand out, but there are times when we weaken and allow ourselves to be pulled along a path we wouldn’t choose for ourselves. What do you do in order to remain strong in your decision to follow Jesus? What is your reaction to those who oppose your faith?

Perhaps these are the thoughts we need to employ, “I will not succumb to those around me; rather I will persevere in the truth of the gospel choosing to honor God rather than follow men”. Most of us will never experience real persecution for our faith, however we do need to take a stand as we find ourselves not fitting in because of our beliefs. What is your response when your faith is questioned, and others make fun of you because you are a Christian? How should you respond?

Consider yourself blessed! Our text says, ‘you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you’. In other words, our happiness comes from knowing God is working in our life through His Holy Spirit – proof of our relationship with Him as His child. To be blessed means we are fortunate, well off, happy. Think! “Wow, I really am God’s child”! This is an amazing fact and should put a smile on our heart even through the most difficult times. We may be dishonored and rejected by the world, however we are honored to belong to Christ, to be received by Him, and to give glory to His name. It is not that we find joy in being ostracized, but there is joy in being named with Christ, as His follower.

Matthew 19:29 "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name's sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life.

“To be reproached for the name of Christ is to be reproached for being a Cristian, that is, for being like Christ. This is the highest honour to which any man can arrive in this world, and therefore the apostle says to such? Happy are ye”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Matthew 5:11-12 "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

2Corinthians 12:10 Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.

James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

Consider the outcome of standing firm even through persecution for your faith. It is possible that others may be intrigued by your commitment; even to the point of wondering what it is you believe. Perhaps others might be saved because of your example. This is our commission, to represent Christ to the world in hopes that individuals come to a saving knowledge of God’s grace and mercy. Through all sorts of trials – illness, death of loved ones, disappointments, loss of employment or possessions – we are sustained through the Spirit’s guidance and work in us. When we recognize His work, undoubtedly knowing that supernatural strength to persevere does not come from us, we are blessed and encouraged. And sometimes others cannot help but recognize there is something ‘bigger’ in our lives than just what they see. Halleluiah for these opportunities!

Matthew 5:16 "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

1Peter 3:16 and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.

“… but He is eminently glorified by your patience and constancy, which are a proof of the power of the Spirit resting upon you, and working mightily in you”, Burkitt.

“In the meantime, while you are in this present world, and obnoxious to persecutions and injuries, if you are reproached for the name of Christ, {ye are} happy, and ought to reckon yourselves so, because the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you; which will support you under it, and spread a lustre around you; and {though} he, in whose cause ye suffer so unjustly, is blasphemed on their part, yet on yours he is glorified: it shows the excellence and sublime spirit of true religion, that it can support you under the opprobrious [offensive reproach] and cruel treatment which you endure, for adhering to it and defending it”, Doddridge.

Think of what it means to have ‘the Spirit of glory and of God rest on you’. I can think of no better protection or encouragement than to know I am held in God’s hand and given His grace to accomplish His will. I am not left on my own to figure out everything, neither am I without help when circumstances become difficult. God will sustain us in suffering; God is always victorious even though we may not immediately see the result of His power. All reproach and shame hurled at God’s children is conquered by His Spirit – we are never made to suffer alone.

James 5:11 We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.

Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.

John 14:16-17 "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

Psalm 146:5 How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,

How will you respond to the truths in 1Peter 4:14?

For myself, I first need to remember that I should expect difficulty because I am a believer. I will not fit into the world and will sometimes find myself quite alone in my thinking and responses. I can forget this and then wonder what is wrong, when in reality there is nothing wrong at all! Others may think all sorts of things about me that are not true; I may be unfairly attacked by words; I may be ostracized and even challenged because of my beliefs. All of this should come as no surprise! We need to be prepared in order to respond rightly.

Responding rightly may mean listening intently to another’s complaint. It may mean being willing to seek to understand someone’s concerns even if we don’t share the same feelings. It is important to show patience with others just as God shows His patience towards us. We are not here to convince others of God’s truths; we are here to show compassion for the lost and to communicate God’s love through our words and actions. God does the miraculous work in a soul.

It helps me to consider how I might have reacted towards others before my eyes were opened to God’s truths. No one likes to be different! I remember thinking that the people I knew who talked about Jesus were just plain weird. Imagine knocking on someone’s door and asking if they knew Jesus! I was unable to comprehend why so much time and energy went into something or someone intangible. I also saw bad things happen to ‘good’ people, and this didn’t make sense. I thought if God loves us and protects us why are seemingly innocent people hurt? Now, when I consider the answer to that question, I am reminded of what it truly means to be blessed and protected by God. His blessings don’t necessarily imply that in this fallen world we are immune to the effects of sin. In fact, sin reigns all around us. God’s blessings does not mean everything is butterflies and roses; however, God’s blessings will supply His children with the strength to not be controlled by sin; and His protection will always keep our eternal future secure. Picture being a passenger in a car. When someone else is driving, even though your intentions may be to mind the laws, decisions made by the driver to disregard rules can totally affect you. If you are the driver and seek to be careful and courteous, someone else’s flawed decisions may involve you in an accident. Because sin is in the world, we are affected by its consequences.

The text in 1Peter 4:14 is focused on being reviled because you stand for Christ. This is not the same as experiencing trouble because you have chosen to do the wrong thing or have made a poor decision. It is finding yourself ostracized in your attempt to follow Jesus; being ridiculed because you do not ‘fit in’, or because people don’t like what you stand for or the message you try to share.

In some way or another, we will be chided for our faith in Jesus.
When we expect this to happen, then we will not be taken by surprise.
The ultimate goal for our lives here on earth is to share truth so that others might come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. We are to live in a way which glorifies His name.
It is a blessing to have assurance that we are God’s children.

Don’t Be Surprised – Keep on Rejoicing!

God’s glory revealed! Imagine. Truly, we are unable to conceive of the joy awaiting us.
We are here, on this earth, for the testimony of Jesus Christ. We have been given the privilege to stand for Him now, and in eternity we will bow before His throne of grace.

Before we begin 1Peter4:12-13, here’s a quick review of the Apostle’s words to the church in 1Peter 4:1-11.

Looking to Christ’s example, have the same purpose (v.1)

Live for God’s will (v.2)

Put off the desires of the world (v.3-5)

Keep your focus on Jesus (v.6)

Use discernment in your decisions and pray (v.7)

Fervently love one another, encouraging one another (v.8)

Show hospitality to one another without grumbling (v.9)

Serve with whatever gifts and strengths you have (v.10)

Be careful to speak Truth, serve in God’s strength for His glory (v.11)

The next two verses in 1Peter 4 give us instruction on what not to do and what we should do – Do not be surprised and Keep on rejoicing. We should not be surprised that our faith is tested; we should rejoice that our faith is tangible.

How do you most often respond to trouble? According to the scripture above, how should you respond to trouble?

Much of the time we are surprised with a sudden development of trouble. We go along with our day, fulfilling our responsibilities, and then the bottom drops out of the box! At this point we either take a deep breath and look to our Savior’s strength, or we hyperventilate and run around in a frenzy wondering what we are supposed to do. Our entire focus can change very quickly. It is easy to live for God’s will, keep our eyes on Jesus, be steadfast in our love for one another and serve in God’s strength, when the sun is shining! When the storms come, when we are challenged, when circumstances take a turn for the worse, we forget our purpose.

The Apostles’ warning to the church and to us – expect trials! Be prepared to respond well, knowing that your testing will grow discipline in your life. Trials allow God’s children to understand in a small way, what Christ did for us. Growing in our likeness of Jesus is painful; our testing can affect every fiber in our body and mind, yet our soul should be filled with joy that we are in the process of being transformed.

Beloved. Notice how the Apostle addresses his brothers and sisters in Christ. This is a term of endearment. He includes himself with them in his exhortation to act with patience and integrity under persecution. When our brothers and sisters in Christ are in the midst of difficult circumstances, we should come alongside them. The Apostle understands the difficulties and struggles these believers are facing. Being reminded of our purpose gives us hope. Knowing we are in this together gives us courage.

Using the term beloved highlights the Apostle’s relationship with these believers. Beloved is a word of kindness and inclusion. This brings to my mind two things. First, the description of love’s characteristics in 1Corinthians 13; second, that this exhortation relates to all those who follow Christ. Peter is not without the same struggles and testing of those he is addressing.

1Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant,

The kindness spoken of in 1Corinthians 13 is motivated by sympathy and understanding. It desires others to benefit. Peter is not scolding, neither is he being critical; he is showing an honest concern for the troubles his peers are facing. He is holding out an understanding hand. The Apostle places himself with them, not above.

Think of Jesus’ example. He came to earth as man, willingly choosing to lay aside His deity. He was still God but chose to interact as man not excluding Himself from the same troubles and temptations. He felt pain, sorrow, frustration, and abandonment.

Philippians 2:7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.

Isaiah 53:3 He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.

Jesus understands our struggles. The Apostle Peter was shown this very example by Christ Himself. In Matthew 14:31, Jesus took hold of Peter’s hand when he began sinking while walking on the water. Jesus indeed rebuked Peter for his lack of faith, but He also held him up and walked with him; He did not just leave him sinking on his own.

Think! Do you come alongside others to encourage them, or do you hold yourself distant? Are you seeking to get from others or to give to others? There is a term called a “fair-weather friend”. This description is of someone who is by your side until trouble hits, then they are nowhere to be found! Remember the several accounts of the disciples who kept themselves scarce while Jesus was arrested?

Matthew 26:56 "But all this has taken place to fulfill the Scriptures of the prophets." Then all the disciples left Him and fled. (Also vs. 69)

Our text reads do not be surprised. Literally, think it not strange. We are to expect trouble! It was not unusual for those who followed God to be persecuted. We are extremely blessed to have freedoms in our Country which allow our faith to be practiced and proclaimed. At this point in history, most of us do not suffer any real persecution for our faith, yet the world and its offerings provide plenty of temptations that draw us away. When things are going well, it may be easy for us to forget we are in a battle with sin. As a result, we are surprised when difficulties unfold even though we are told to expect problems. When we expect something to happen, we prepare in advance. So, for myself, when I am caught off guard with a difficult circumstance, it is a lack of remembering I am in a fight and a lack of preparing my heart each day and moment with the armor needed for the fight. Think! How do you prepare for potential problems? We think it wise to prepare for all sorts of catastrophic events – we know they will happen; we just don’t know when. Likewise, we are to expect trouble because of our faith – we are to be prepared for spiritual attack, so we are not caught off guard. This truth calls for action on our part. We are to think ahead how we will respond in holiness when our faith is tested.

Peter reminded the church to not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among them, meaning calamities or trials. This is the picture of something igniting a problem, referring to a severe trial. Liken this to the fire used to test metals removing their impurities. ‘Fiery ordeals’ relates to persecution as a direct result of faith in Christ.

2Timothy 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

Matthew 16:24-25 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. "For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, "Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God."

Which comes upon you for your testing. Putting to proof by experiment, experience, discipline, or provocation; adversity; temptation. In this context, it means to try one’s faith for its quality.

Think! What do you do when you test something? Why are things tested?

1Corinthians 3:12-13 Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work.

1Peter 1:6-7 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

Consider. As a believer, you have been saved from God’s wrath. You are in the process of being sanctified – being rid of impurities – in order to be presented pure and spotless. Accordingly, should testing come as a surprise?

Colossians 1:21-22 And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach-

When we look at verse 13 of 1Peter 4, we are reminded that our focus is to be on the hope we have for our future. Even in the midst of suffering and persecution, Peter is guiding the church’s thoughts to their purpose in Christ. If we look to the example of Jesus, we will expect trials, or the testing of our faith. Think! If we have never been challenged to remain steadfast through difficulties, we might need to examine our sincerity in Christ – are we truly saved? Are you being transformed?

Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.

Today, we look at the cross and are reminded of the power of Christ over sin and death. In biblical times, especially in the Roman empire, the cross was a symbol of certain death by crucifixion. The words in the above verse are more than just accepting hardship, they are a statement of denying oneself for the purpose of Christ. Are we willing to die to ourselves in order to follow His Truths? What might this look like in your circumstances?

The struggles, difficulties, challenges, and testing, of our faith does not occur haphazardly. They are purposed by God in order to grow us in our understanding and likeness of Jesus. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that we encounter trouble. We can easily separate ourselves from the saints of old, thinking that was then, this is now. However, the need for salvation through Jesus’ death and resurrection is the same today as it was almost 2,000 years ago. People are still prideful, living for self, focused on their own glory, rather than obedience to God. Sin is still present and persuades us to its offerings. The testimonies we have of Christian persecution is real – if it happened then, it will happen now.

Regard the difference between testing and destroying. We are not afflicted in order to be wiped out. We are tested in order to examine the character of our faith; to determine its strength to stand firm; to prove its truth and genuineness in our heart.

What does it mean to ‘share the sufferings of Christ’? Everyone on earth suffers in one way or another at one time or another. But, suffering and ‘sharing the sufferings of Christ’ are different. The latter produces hope where the former has no hope at all. Sharing in the sufferings of Christ confirms our relationship with Him, our righteousness only found in Him, and our future resurrection from the dead, both body and soul restored in His likeness for eternity. The suffering we experience in this world is temporary; in God’s strength and guidance of His Holy Spirit, we can hang on while we look to our eternal future in heaven.

Philippians 3:8-11 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Romans 8:16-17 The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

John 15:20 "Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

Matthew 5:10-12 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Peter urges the church to keep on rejoicing. Not for the trouble itself, but for the opportunity to prove that their faith was real, and for the assurance given them for their future. The joy experienced here may be mixed with pain and heaviness but one day will be pure elation. In the event we are chastised or ridiculed, overlooked, or even mistreated because of our stand for Jesus, we should respond with joy that we are indeed followers of Christ and are not conformed to this world.

Think! Are you willing to take a stand for Christ? When you are ostracized for your beliefs, are you still able to rejoice in the Truths you know?

Go back to 1Peter 1:6 and circle the word rejoice. Do the same for Matthew 5:12.

Luke 6:22-23 "Blessed are you when men hate you, and ostracize you, and insult you, and scorn your name as evil, for the sake of the Son of Man. "Be glad in that day and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven. For in the same way their fathers used to treat the prophets.

Acts 5:41 So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name. (This is after Peter and the apostles were accused and flogged for teaching about Jesus. Flogging or scourging was a usual punishment in the Roman empire. Typically, the accused were stripped of clothing then tied to a frame and beaten with rods.)

Acts 16:25 But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them;

Romans 5:3-4 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;

2Corinthians 4:17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,

James 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

“That I may know Him. That I may be fully acquainted with His nature, His character, His work, and with the salvation which He has wrought out. It is one of the highest objects of desire in the mind of the Christian to know Christ. … And the power of His resurrection. That is, that I may understand and experience the proper influence which the fact of His resurrection should have on the mind. That influence would be felt in imparting the hope of immortality; in sustaining the soul in the prospect of death, by the expectation of being raised from the grave in like manner; and in raising the mind above the world. … One of the things which a Christian ought most earnestly to desire is, to feel the power of this truth on his soul – that His great Redeemer has burst the bands of death; has brought life and immortality to light, and has given us the pledge that our bodies shall rise.” Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary

Philippians 3:10-12 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

Lastly, the purpose or result of your rejoicing is that at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. This is exceeding joy, then you shall exult. Think extreme elation, triumph!

1Peter 1:8 speaks of Joy inexpressible and full of glory in our response to the salvation of our souls and the love we have for Christ.

God’s glory revealed! Imagine. Truly, we are unable to conceive of the joy awaiting us.

We are here, on this earth, for the testimony of Jesus Christ. We have been given the privilege to stand for Him now, and in eternity we will bow before His throne of grace.

“By such exhortations as these the heroes of the cross were trained to endurance, so that they defied death, and torments worse than death. Have we any of their brave spirit?” Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

1Peter 1:13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 25:21;34 "His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.' … "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

2Corinthians 4:8-18

Serving For Him and Because of Him

God uses us; however, we must be careful to remember He is the author of all good things. Anytime we are able to help, encourage, or serve, it is not to be for personal accolades. It is for His praise alone.

A few weeks ago, we began looking at this verse and concentrated on the Apostle’s admonition to be careful of the content of our words, Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God. No matter what particular gifts we may use to serve one another, our speech needs to represent the Word correctly. We are to be mindful of sharing words of encouragement, words of compassion, and words of Truth.

In the next section of verse 11, Peter now expands on serving – how we are to serve, and why we are to serve. Whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies;

What often happens when we seek to serve in our own strength?

The serving mentioned here is that of attending to another’s needs as a friend, or in ministry in specific roles in the church. Serving takes time, commitment, and energy; it often affects our personal life, finances, and requires decisions to put aside our wants and schedules to meet the needs of others. If you are involved in serving, you recognize that a large part of your life is spent in ministry – preparing, praying, and encouraging others. My own opinion is if you are bored, you’re not serving enough. Pull out a piece of paper and write an encouraging note; pick up your phone and share encouraging words. If you are lonely, you are not looking for opportunities to serve. If you become discouraged, disappointed, or depressed, serve more – get involved in people’s lives for the sake of encouraging others. When we are consumed with serving to benefit others, we will not have the time to concentrate on ourselves, our feelings, etc. We do need to take care of everyday responsibilities, so this does not mean we serve in lieu of dealing with the immediate things that need our attention. It does mean if we are only focused on our own issues, we are in danger of ignoring opportunities to help others.

How do we serve?

By the strength which God supplies. God blesses each of His children with gifts to be used for Him. Our talents, abilities, strength, and compassion, are not given to us to make us feel good about ourselves, instead we use these things to encourage others in the faith. All we are and have, is for God’s glory.

Romans 12:6-8 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

“[Of the ability which God giveth] Perhaps the ministering here may refer to the care of the poor, and the ability is the quantum of means which God may have placed in their hands; and they are to minister this as coming immediately from God, and lead the minds of the poor to consider Him as their benefactor, that He in all things may be glorified through Christ Jesus. This is implied in the essence of any charitable act: the actor is not the author, God is the author; and the poor man should be taught to consider Him as his immediate benefactor. Those who give any thing as from themselves, rob God; for to Him the praise for all good, and the dominion over all men and things, belong for ever and ever. Adam Clarke’s Commentary

We should serve in humility, knowing it is God’s work through us;

we should serve diligently, knowing it is God’s desire for us.

Matthew Poole’s Commentary says, “Let him do it as of the ability which God giveth; i.e. not remissly and coldly, but diligently and strenuously, and with his might, as far as God enables him; this being to do it faithfully, which is especially required in a steward, 1Corinthians 4:2 In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy”.

Consider. We serve in God’s strength, using the gifts He has given to each of us. We are to be found trustworthy in being good stewards of the abilities we have. Therefore, we do not hide our talents in the closet but rather, we need to be sensitive to the areas where we can be helpful. In this way, the truths of the Gospel are manifest in our lives as a witness to those around us.

Why do you serve? What is your motivation?

There are some who are not believers, who serve others. But they get their rewards in full here on earth by men. The motivation is to do something good, yet invariably they gain something. A special interest of theirs gets attention, their financial donations offer a tax benefit, or perhaps they get support from a foundation they choose to help. Something or someone other than God is elevated.

Matthew 6:1-2 "Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven. So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full.

There’s lots of reasons people serve in the church. We need to be careful even when serving in the church body because our motivation may be for self. Some give of their time, energy, and resources because it is expected, and others may be watching. Some serve because it gives them a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, recognition, titles, popularity, and importance can be motivators in serving in a church body. But what if no one encouraged you; what if no one recognized your hard work; what if you felt unsupported and were even discouraged by others’ lack of response – would you keep serving? Do you serve when it means sacrificing your time, or when it gets difficult?

As a side note, we should try to show our appreciation for those who work hard to serve us so this is not a license to ignore those who serve diligently; but appreciation should never be expected. You should squelch those feelings of hurt when your efforts go unnoticed.

Consider what Christ did for us. He came to serve – not for His own benefit, but for the glory of His Father. He was ignored; He was not appreciated. He never belonged, in fact he had nowhere to even lay His head. Matthew 8:20 Jesus *said to him, "The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head. "He was of lowly birth (Luke 2:7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn). His ministry was challenged, certainly not supported (Mark 11:27-33); He was threatened, and ridiculed, beaten, and crucified. Yet, even while dying on the cross, He served – asking forgiveness for those who sinned and proclaiming salvation to one of the criminals crucified with Him.

Are you self-serving or serving God? Do your thoughts center more on how you feel or what you can do to encourage others? If you are serving self, you are likely to receive earthly benefits; serving for God’s glory will prove your eternal birth right.

Matthew 7:21-23 "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.'

We serve so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Remember the account written for us in Mark, of James and John asking who would sit on Jesus’ right and left in glory. They were all about themselves, seeking their own benefit. Jesus’ reply to them is recorded in Mark 10:42-45.

Calling them to Himself, Jesus *said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them. “But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

Whatever you do is to be done for God’s glory. The last part of 1Peter 4:11 reads, Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Revelation 5:12-13 saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing." And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."

Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

Romans 11:36 For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.

Jude 1:25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.

Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Think of the words associated with Christ – glory and dominion. There is none other who can rightly claim honor, praise, and worship. There is none other who has power and strength over all creation.

Amen. Literally, this is a trustworthy statement.

Speak His Truths,

serve in His strength,

all for His glory.

Honoring God With Our Speech

Does your understanding come from God’s holy word? Do your lips speak of His truths? Is He honored by your speech?

Previously, in Chapter 4, Peter had reminded his brothers and sisters in Christ to live for the will of God, using Christ as their example. Last time we were in this section of scripture, we read verses 8-10. Peter gave some direct instructions in these verses –

Keep fervent in your love for one another (v.8),

Be hospitable to one another (v.9), and

Serve one another using the gifts God has given (v.10).

Peter had finished with the command to serve one another with whatever gifts they had. Now, he specifically addresses our speech and ministry to others. We will look at the first part of verse eleven in this study.

Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God.

Speaking includes talking, teaching, and preaching; basically, anytime you open your mouth. Most commentaries agree this instruction is more specifically directed towards teachers and preachers; however, this does not mean if you are not teaching, you are off the hook with your speech! But if you do teach there is an even greater responsibility to be careful to represent the Word correctly. We are to be careful with how we represent God’s word in all circumstances.

Think of your own speech. According to several sources, women speak an average of 16,000 to over 20,000 words per day, in some cases up to 25,000! Consider how many of your words are spoken from a heart which represents Christ. Our every utterance does not need to be a quote from the Bible, but it does mean that we are mindful to assess our words; that they encourage others in Truth. Kind and careful words can bless, while careless words can harm and discourage.

Colossians 4:2-6 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.

Grace-filled speech results from God’s influence upon our heart. It is a reflection of His work in our lives. The book of Colossians was written by Paul to the church towards the end of his first imprisonment in Rome. Prayer was instrumental in his own ministry and that of others. In the verse above, notice his prayer was for the purpose of sharing Truth. He asked that his words be filled with the mystery of Christ, and that his words would be sensitive to those who would hear. He reminded the church to use wisdom in how they responded to each person.

Titus 2:1-8 But as for you, speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine. Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance. Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored. Likewise urge the young men to be sensible; in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.

The book of Titus was written by Paul to Titus who was most likely converted to Christianity by Paul’s ministry. These were Paul’s instructions to Titus and the church. Look at the emphasis placed on speech. Make sure your words represent truth from the Bible; not being a slanderer but teaching what is right. We can only speak what we know and understand. It is so important for each believer to search God’s word for direction.

Think! Does your understanding come from God’s holy word? Do your lips speak of His truths? Is He honored by your speech?

Psalm 34:13 Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.

David wrote these words when he had fled from Saul’s persecution to Gath. King Achish’s servants recognized David to be the one who killed Goliath, so David acted like he was insane to protect himself. Then David escaped to the cave of Adullam in Palestine. All the while, throughout his fleeing for safety, the Psalmist was still more concerned with honoring God. He knew God was his protection, and living in righteousness was his goal. In Psalm 34:13, he addresses the area of speech – keep your speech from evil, from mischief, from deceit.

Recognize, the rules do not change dependent on the circumstances. It is easy to use kind and encouraging words when someone is pleasant toward you. What happens when someone is inconsiderate or just mean with their words? Do you then revert to unprofitable communication?

Consider. Do you need to share everything? Do your words seek to damage another? What is the result when you are not careful with your words? Others are hurt, slandered, injured, and discouraged. Conveying someone else’s faults or shortcomings to another person, only seeks to pull down another while making yourself look better. Psalm 34:13 says keep your lips from speaking deceit; add to this flattery and false promises. Say what you mean with careful restraint, be certain your words are true and necessary. Always have the goal of encouraging another in holiness. We need to hold our tongues! There is a saying, ‘bite your tongue’. This is an idiom which means to stop yourself from saying something that might upset somebody or cause an argument.

If your relationship with God is right, your speech will be righteous.

In other words, if you are being conformed to the image of His Son through Jesus’ death and resurrection, desiring to be used by Him, seeking to carefully follow His commands, then your words will be characterized by His holiness.

Read this commentary on Psalm 34:13. “Keep thy tongue from evil. Guard with careful diligence that dangerous member, the tongue, lest it utter evil, for that evil will recoil upon thee, and mar the enjoyment of thy life. Men cannot spit forth poison without feeling some of the venom burning their own flesh. And thy lips from speaking guile. Deceit must be very earnestly avoided by the man who desires happiness. A crafty schemer lives like a spy in the enemy's camp, in constant fear of exposure and execution. Clean and honest conversation, by keeping the conscience at ease, promotes happiness, but lying and wicked talk stuffs our pillow with thorns, and makes life a constant whirl of fear and shame”, Treasury of David.

Don’t miss the illustration above. Try stuffing your pillow at night with thorns and see how restful your sleep may be!

Matthew 12:35-37 "The good man brings out of his good treasure what is good; and the evil man brings out of his evil treasure what is evil. "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

Careless words are those that are useless, idle, and have no real purpose. They are based on trivial matters, and often unwarranted. Careless words lack a sense of restraint and responsibility.

James 1:19 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;

We are to be ready to listen and understand – we cannot be good listeners if we are always interrupting; we are to be slow to speak – this is the opposite of being quick to respond; it does mean taking the time to ponder what is being shared and then being careful to base your reply on Truth. We are to be slow to judge – not quick in assessing wrong-doing or fast in our reaction towards another, instead we are to be ‘dull’ or soft, not responding from emotions, but rather from gentleness. If only we would seek to see others through the eyes of Jesus!

James 3:5-6 So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.

This is a strong warning! Consider how quickly forest fires spread and the destruction left behind. Our speech can spread information to others which can either bless or destroy. We need to be willing to ask ourselves what our purpose is, in sharing information about another person or circumstance. Are we spreading something that will hurt someone’s character? Are we conveying thoughts about a situation that have no merit or fact? Are you careful with the source of your information? It is not always necessary or profitable to share how others may have hurt or injured you.

1Peter 2:1-3 Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.

According to the verse above, where should our attention be given?

Speaking the utterances of God. What is the content of your speech? Are your words grounded in God’s Holy Scripture? Does your speech represent God? It may be prudent to consider the message you are trying to get across when you open your mouth. This is important for those who might be preaching or teaching, and for all those who claim to follow Jesus. Our words matter! Think! Would you speak the same if everyone were listening? Would your words change if God were standing next to you? HE IS.

Extending God’s Love

1Peter 4:8 Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.

Above all other exhortations or more important than anything else. Peter is putting a special emphasis on his statement. It might well be like us saying, ‘this is important, make sure you get it right!’. We see the same phrase used in James 5:12.

But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment.

Also, in Paul’s words to the Colossians, 3:14 Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.

Live for the will of God rather than the desires of the flesh; be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer and pay particular regard to keeping fervent in your love for one another.

The Apostle placed a special value on loving one another. Sound judgment, a sober spirit, and prayer (1Peter4:7) are not less important than love but without love none of these things is possible. All our motivations for living according to God’s will, must come from a heart yielded to Him. The basis of loving one another, is God’s love for us.

Think! If we love others only when they are lovable, then the success of our love for others will be sorely limited. Are you always lovable? The answer is ‘of course not’! The love we have for others is based on the unconditional love God has for us. He loves us even though we are unworthy; when we are disobedient, God still loves us; when we fail, when we choose to follow sin, when we forget – God remains faithful in His love for us. If we can remember these truths, then our love for others will never be based on what they deserve but rather on our understanding of God’s great love for His children.

John 13:34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

Keep, in 1Peter 4:8, is translated from the Hebrew word echo. Think! What is an echo? It is a repetition – again and again. We are to love one another repeatedly and fervently; intently, without ceasing, with devotion.

Why are we to keep fervent in our love for one another?

Because love covers a multitude of sins. Consider those you have a deep affection for. When they err, you are more patient with them, desiring to turn them from their sin towards righteousness. Rather than focusing on their faults, we are willing to overlook imperfections. The encouragement is to love one another for the purpose of leading others to live for Christ.

“He commends charity towards one another, because it buries a multitude of sins, and therefore preserves and maintains peace and harmony: for they who love one another easily forgive one another their offences”, 1599 Geneva Bible Notes.

“A loving disposition leads us to pass by the faults of others, to forgive offences against ourselves, and to excuse and lessen, as far as is consistent with truth, the transgressions of men”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Proverbs 10:12 Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all transgressions.

1Corinthians 13:4-7 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Matthew 18:21 Then Peter came and said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus *said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.

Proverbs 17:9 He who conceals a transgression seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates intimate friends.

Are we quick to point out the faults of others? We are to be patient in our spirit, slow to retaliate or express resentment, as we seek to quickly forgive offenses. This makes me think of the verse in Matthew.

Matthew 7:3 "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

Leviticus 19:18 'You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.

We are to be more concerned with helping each other live in righteousness, than we are with condemning one another for faults. I think of my mistakes and the decisions I made as a new believer that were less than stellar. Those around me poured their love out on me and encouraged me, not by pointing out the wrong things I had done, but by pointing me to God’s righteousness. This took patience and long-suffering from those who loved me as they waited for God to work in my life.

Notice, the verse says love covers a multitude of sins. A large number, many. There is no limit to the number of times we are to excuse others. Doesn’t Jesus cover our sins multiple times a day?

Philip Doddridge N.T. notes say, “love will cover a multitude of sins; it will cause us to excuse them in others, and it will entitle us through divine mercy to the expectation of forgiveness for numberless slips and failings”.

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

Ephesians 4:31-32 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

1Peter 4:9 Be hospitable to one another without complaint.

The Apostle reminds the church to always be ready to share, to be welcoming and ready for guests. This was especially important at that time when Christians were unwelcomed in their own homes because of their conversion. These struggling believers were no longer accepted so it was necessary for them to find shelter and food elsewhere. There wasn’t a motel or restaurant on every corner, so it was up to others to provide strangers with necessities. Hospitality was also an important part of furthering the Gospel from one place to another as individuals were sent out to start churches and encourage the brethren.

Romans 12:13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.

Hebrews 13:2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.

Peter’s encouragement is to be hospitable without complaint – not grudgingly, without murmuring. This speaks of the right attitude we are to have when helping others. Hospitality was not to be practiced simply because it was commanded but was to be extended out of love for one another.

Consider the preparation and added expense of having guests in your home. It takes extra time and effort. They were not to focus on the work involved in being hospitable, but were to serve with a cheerful heart, truly welcoming those who stayed with them.

Matthew 25:35 'For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in;

Hospitality is not only for those ‘who are good at it’. Each of us is to willingly share what we have to encourage others. Think! Are you quick to use the gifts God has given you for the benefit of others? Or do you hold back waiting for someone else to respond to a need? Are you willing to inconvenience yourself to serve others? In 1Peter 4:9, the church was reminded to use hospitality in serving one to another. This was important to the encouragement of believers and those who were seeking to minister to the early churches. Now, in verse 10, Peter continues to remind the church that hospitality was only one of many diverse, spiritual gifts, which had been bestowed upon them to use for the benefit of others and the good of the church.

1Peter 4:10 As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

First, everyone has received special graces from God.

Second, each one is to use what they have to benefit others.

Third, we are stewards of these gifts, not owners for self-use but distributors for God’s use.

The words special gift means an endowment meant to be used for others. When Peter wrote this Epistle, there were gifts present that we do not readily see today. Jesus sent out the twelve with instructions to go to the lost and preach. Along with His orders, He gifted many with the ability to perform miracles in His name. Matthew 19:8 "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give.

Every gift and grace is to be used to contribute to the blessing of others. Although these gifts differ, each is equally important in ministering to the church body as a whole. “The word minister here would refer to any kind of ministering, whether by counsel, by advice, by the supply of the wants of the poor, or by preaching. It has here no reference to any one of these exclusively; but means, that in whatever God has favoured us more than others, we should be ready to minister to their wants”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary. This is the opposite of keeping to oneself. How are we engaged in service to one another? Are we seeking to edify the church with whatever God has given us? Have we allowed ourselves to be excused from serving because we are too tired, or too old, or feel we do not have anything to offer?

Recall the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. The servants who used what had been given them to increase their master’s wealth were rewarded. The one who hid what was entrusted to him was condemned. Our Master is Jesus. We are to contribute to His Kingdom using the gifts He has given.

Everything we have is a gift from God – it all belongs to Him. Everything seen and unseen, all that is in our physical possession and all that makes up our physical person, including our strengths, and abilities.

Romans 12:4-8 For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Think! Are you able to influence others for good? Do you have something tangible to share? How about wisdom and experience? Can you pray for others, make phone calls, write notes of encouragement?

All we have and all we are is to be disposed for His Kingdom – we are merely stewards of God’s grace. This is the opposite of being an owner; a steward is a manager. This word is translated from a Greek word meaning an overseer, or an employee in that capacity; a fiscal agent or treasurer. Figuratively, it means a preacher of the Gospel. Think! How do our lives and how we use our blessings, promote Christ? A good manager oversees the use of resources.

Think of embezzlement for a moment. Each of the following excerpts are taken from the Associated Press. “An election commissioner in Mississippi’s largest county has pleaded guilty to fraud and embezzlement charge related to misuse of pandemic relief money …”. “A Catholic priest is accused of stealing more than $800,000 from three retired priests …”. “The former clerk for a small northeast South Carolina town has been charged with embezzlement of public funds”.

Embezzlement is the “fraudulent appropriation of funds or property entrusted to your care but actually owned by someone else”. We can readily see the improper use of money in the stories above.

Each child of God has His grace poured upon their lives; the gift of the Holy Spirit residing within their soul; the promise of glory far beyond imagination; and a plethora of undeserved blessings. Are we using these things entrusted to us for the benefit of God’s kingdom?

1Corinthians 4:1-2 Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.

“Whatever gifts or endowments any man may possess, they are properly speaking, not his own; they are the Lord's property, and to be employed in His work, and to promote His glory”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Read Paul’s words: Ephesians 3:8-12 To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things; so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places. This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him.

Lord, help us to use Your blessings, through Your grace, in Your strength, for Your glory.

Purpose

Looking at our own application of these verses, we are to live in sincere holiness, desiring to follow God’s word at any cost. We are to honor Him and keep our focus towards our life with Him in the future – no matter the obstacles we might face in the present.

Continuing in 1Peter Chapter four we read the exhortations from Peter, written to the Jewish and Gentile converts, to live according to the example of Christ in doing God’s will. It is enough that they had been following sin; they were to turn from their former life even though there was pressure from others to continue in sin. Their sights were to be on God with whom they were ultimately held accountable. The apostle persists in assigning reasons to these Christians why they should live according to the will of God.

1Peter 4:6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to [the will of] God.

Recall, in 1Peter 3, we were referred back to the time of Noah and the opportunity that was given for all to believe while he was building the ark. Noah was ridiculed for his belief, and so too would these new converts be reproached for their faith. Christians may be judged wrongly according to men but regardless, must live according to the word of God.

1Peter 3:19-20 in which also He went and made proclamation to the spirits [now] in prison, who once were disobedient, when the patience of God kept waiting in the days of Noah, during the construction of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through [the] water.

It is important for us to remember that God’s judgment is perfect, and all will be judged. This is motivation to live according to His will. Through faith and obedience those who lived before Christ were saved.

How often do we make decisions based on what others might expect or think rather than what God says? We can become too concerned about the judgement of others when we truly ought to be considering the will of God instead.

Spurgeon says this in his commentary, “Our departed brethren heard the gospel to this end that, though condemned to die by their cruel persecutors, they might win the immortal crown and glorify God as his witnesses”.

Are you living in the Spirit according to the will of God? Give an example of how this might change your thinking or actions.

Romans 8:9-10 However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. And if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness.

Ephesians 2:3-5 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),

1Peter 4:7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober [spirit] for the purpose of prayer.

This letter goes on to encourage the recipients in their purpose of living for the will of God. The ‘end’ means the point aimed at, the goal, or the conclusion. A few years after Peter wrote this epistle, Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans. This marked “the end of the temple, the end of the Levitical priesthood, the end of the whole Jewish economy”, (Adam Clarke’s Commentary).

However, in a more general sense, and keeping with the Apostle’s encouragement to live in holiness, looking toward that final judgement, these words seem to point either to physical death or the prophetic end of Christ’s return. Each follower of Christ is to live in a manner which has more regard for what is to happen rather than focusing on the difficulties that weigh heavy in the present – because the end is near.

Perhaps a good question to ask ourselves is, ‘what are we living towards?’. Consider what direction you are headed. When you drive, you cannot go in opposite directions at the same time. You must choose one way or another.

Matthew 3:2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

Matthew 24:13-14 "But the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved. "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations, and then the end shall come.

Matthew 26:41 "Keep watching and praying, that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Luke 21:34-35 "Be on guard, that your hearts may not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth.

James 5:8 You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

1Peter 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober [in spirit,] fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

2Peter 3:10-11 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,

Revelation 22:12 "Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward [is] with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.

This is our charge to live in holiness while we await the day of Jesus’ return. He alone has the “power and authority to recompense every man according to what he hath done”, Poole. Are you prepared?

Be of sound judgment and sober [spirit] for the purpose of prayer. “Serious; thoughtful; considerate. Let a fact of so much importance make a solemn impression on your mind, and preserve you from frivolity, levity, and vanity”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

1Thessalonians 5:6 so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

1Thessalonians 5:8 But since we are of [the] day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation.

2Timothy 4:5 But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

To be sober in spirit is to be of sound mind, to watch, to be aware. Our salvation is not to be taken lightly. Christ suffered and died for us; we are to live for Him.

“How strongly are vain and sinful men attached to the amusements and interests of this mortal life, and to the gratification of their lusts! But the important end of all things is at hand, when this earthly globe, and all things which are therein, shall be burnt up, when the eternal state of all its inhabitants shall be determined, and immutable happiness or misery shall be their final portion. Be sober, therefore, and watch against all occasions of intemperance and of impurity, and endeavour to preserve your souls in so divine a posture, as that you may be habitually qualified for joining in prayer and those other exercises of devotion, which have such an influence on our whole conduct”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

Does this mean we do not laugh or enjoy things around us? Where do your greatest affections lie? What are your goals, your motivations? One commentary reads, “Be ye therefore sober, temperate in all things, not inordinately pursuing nor immoderately using any thing in this world knowing how short the time is”, Thomas Haweis.

Mark 14:38 "Keep watching and praying, that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Romans 12:11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;

For the purpose of prayer. We are here to worship God, to give glory to Him in all things. Back up to 1Peter 4:6 and recall our purpose is to live according to the will of God.

Ephesians 6:18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,

The KJV reads “and watch unto prayer”. Keeping close to God keeps us covered in His protection so that we do not fall into the temptations of the world. On our own we are weak and frail in our fight against sin. We need His power and strength to live worthy.

Even with the understanding of our need and the seriousness of our calling, there is an excitement of what is to come. There is joy to be had in the knowledge of our future in heaven and Christ’s return to earth. So, this is not a call to walk around in sackcloth and ashes; rather, it is a call to take your faith and your purpose seriously. God’s children have been appointed to live in holiness according to His will, and in His strength.

Living for God

Consider who you were before being saved and who you are now. Your pursuits, your way of thinking, and your priorities should be as different as night and day. Only God can change a soul to desire His holiness. This was true a few thousand years ago and remains true today.

1Peter 4:3-5 For the time already past is sufficient [for you] to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousals, drinking parties and abominable idolatries. 4 And in [all] this, they are surprised that you do not run with [them] into the same excess of dissipation, and they malign [you]; 5 but they shall give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

Looking back to verses 1 and 2, we are to follow Christ’s example which is living for the will of God – this is our purpose. Our trajectory has been changed from a focus on self to a focus on holiness.

1Peter 4:3 paints a clear picture of the change that is wrought in someone who is following Jesus. The audience Peter writes to understands the former life he describes. He calls the believers to recognize the sin they had been entrenched in and tells them this way of life is now in the past.

‘For the time already past is sufficient [for you] to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles’ – the apostle is continuing his exhortation to live in the example of Christ, giving yet another argument or explanation of what they used to contrast with what they are to be now. Recall that the Gentiles had been actively involved in a sinful lifestyle which included all forms of idolatry. And the Jews had also fallen into the wiles of sinful behavior. The word sufficient does not mean this lifestyle was acceptable for a time; it does mean emphatically that it must not continue. This is like saying, ‘I’ve had enough already, it’s done!’. Think of all the time wasted in living a way that dishonors God. Once you are called to understand His truths, you are motivated to turn completely from your sin and move in the opposite direction.

Matthew Poole’s commentary suggests Peter’s words were “to stir them up to holiness by minding them of their former sinful life; ‘Ye are concerned to run well now, when ye have for so great a part of your time run wrong’.

One commentary reads, “for not even the past time ought to have been wasted in lust; but since you cannot recall it, at least lay out the future to better account”, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary.

Romans 13:13 Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy.

Ephesians 4:17-18 This I say therefore, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart;

Titus 3:3 For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.

1Peter 1:14-15 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts [which were yours] in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all [your] behavior;

We could go on to investigate each corrupted behavior listed in 1Peter 4:3, but it seems better to look at them as a whole lifestyle of sin. Perhaps we are not able to identify with the specifics of the words used, however, we are able to identify with living for selfish desires. Consider who you were before being saved and who you are now. Your pursuits, your way of thinking, and your priorities should be as different as night and day. Only God can change a soul to desire His holiness. This was true a few thousand years ago and remains true today.

In this passage, the new converts, Jewish and Gentile Christians, are being reminded to live for Christ – behaviors quite different than before. When you change completely in your actions and thinking, those around you are either pleased and impressed and encouraged, or they are bothered and feel disdain because there is pressure on them to make a change also. When you no longer follow the ‘status quo’, you stick out, and it causes friction. This is the arena these new believers found themselves in. It is no different today.

Think of the culture we are in right now. What happens if you do not go along with majority thinking? The wording in the KJV for verse 4 reads, “wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them …” It is quite possible that others will think you are strange. Are you singled out for not having the same views? Do you think people are pressured to think and act in a way which accepts sin? There is a choice to make, are we choosing to glorify God with our lives despite any negative feedback?

Remember how the Jewish leaders acted when they saw others being drawn towards the Apostles’ teaching of Jesus? Acts 13:45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy, and [began] contradicting the things spoken by Paul, and were blaspheming. They felt threatened by this different thinking and were concerned that people were listening and perhaps they would become less important. So, they spoke against the truth. The response of Paul and Barnabas was to continue to boldly live for God. Acts 13:46 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, "It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; since you repudiate it, and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles.

The Apostle reminds the converts that they ultimately will answer to God for their actions. It is not for us to judge, but instead to share the truth because we know judgement is coming.

Acts 10:42 "And He ordered us to preach to the people, and solemnly to testify that this is the One who has been appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead.

Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Our purpose is to live for God. Your pursuits, the way you spend time, the words you share, should bring glory to His name.

Think of how God has changed you. Are you willing to stand for Him?

Unfortunately, it is easy to judge others. Yet what we are called to do is share the truth so that others are saved from God’s eternal judgment.

Praise God for what He has saved us from and what He has saved us to!

The Delight Of Truth, Psalm 119:9-16

Dear Friends and Family,

Often, we find ourselves in an area we could not have imagined. God used others to guide me through the unknown world of publication with my first book released in 2019. Since then, my desire to write of God’s truths has only strengthened. 1Peter 4:10 reads, “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God”. My prayer is to serve Him well in whatever capacity He provides.

Please help me celebrate the release of my 6th book titled The Delight of Truth: Psalm 119:9-16. This is the second book in a purposeful walk through the longest Psalm in the Bible, originally shared as a Bible study in our women’s group at church. Full of scripture, definitions, and questions to spur on your own personal application, it is available through the Amazon Book Store as an eBook, and in print as a paperback book. I write, not as a scholar, but as a child of God, saved by His grace alone, desiring to know and understand my Lord and Savior.

I appreciate and welcome your feedback. My desire is to encourage those I know to dig into the beauty of God’s word, to grow in understanding, knowledge, and application together, as we await our eternal home in His presence. May you be blessed, challenged, and renewed in your soul by the delight of God’s truths.

Focus Heavenward, Sharyn

Living For God’s Glory

As a believer, you have a purpose. You are expected to live for Christ.

Welcome to thensingsmysoultothee.com! It has been one month since I have posted on my website. My computer had to be rebuilt after a massive crash. I do think things are up and running again. Please ignore the posts which have popped up without permission, I am working through deleting individuals who have managed to break in as admins on this site. If you are at all familiar with my blog, you will know it is all about the study and application of God’s truths from His word.

My last post was a video from Focus Heavenward Ministries, which is my YouTube channel. The last written study finished up 1Peter Chapter 3 - you can check it out here https://thensingsmysoultothee.com/hope-replaces-fear/. Today we’ll get back on track as we begin to look at 1Peter 4:1-2. Thank you for hanging in there with me! Also, look for a post announcing my new book, The Delight of Truth, Psalm 119:9-16.

1Peter 4:1-2 Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

Look back at the previous verses. Remember, Peter gave instruction in chapter three, for submission in relationships and to authority, using Jesus as the example to follow. Those who followed Christ were to live with an understanding attitude towards others, choosing to be a blessing. And even if suffering were to come because of their beliefs, they were to hang in there and continue to move forward in holiness, following the example of Jesus.

1Peter 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, [the] just for [the] unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;

Therefore, considering all things written before, understand and accept your purpose. The Apostle is now giving his audience a charge to action: ‘Arm yourselves, live for the will of God’. His audience were the Jews and Gentiles who had been called to follow Christ. They formerly followed different beliefs – the Jews were caught in a web of legalism as they held to the practice of the Law; the Gentiles were entrenched in sins of idolatry and immoral practices. But now, their lives and purpose had changed. And with that noticeable change, came ridicule, persecution from others, and a pressure to return to their previous ways.

But God had an intentional role for them. They had been freed from the bondage of sin and were now living for Christ. Although this was written thousands of years ago, the message of God’s word is the same. As a believer, you have a purpose. You are expected to live for Christ. Before you were saved, you served sin; now you serve Christ, and sometimes it may mean ridicule or suffering because you act different, you don’t blend in with the norm.

Romans 6:1-2 What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace might increase? May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it?

Romans 6:5-7 For if we have become united with [Him] in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall be also [in the likeness] of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old self was crucified with [Him,] that our body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin; for he who has died is freed from sin.

Galatians 5:24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Colossians 3:3,5 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 5 Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry.

In other words, therefore, since you are now saved and identify with Christ, act like it! First, we must seriously consider if we are able to identify with and agree with the scriptures listed above. This means we have a genuine desire to have sin uprooted in our lives; we recognize our need for forgiveness, and proclaim Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Then, we are freed to live worthy in Christ, in His power and strength. This is not possible if we are not saved; on our own, our best is epic failure! We simply are unable to fight sin without salvation.

Are we relying upon God’s strength to do His will?

Do we seek to live holy in spite of difficulties; are we resolved in our desire to follow Christ?

Are we willing to hold our plans, our passions, and our comfort as unimportant in the light of serving others for Jesus?

Notice the words, ‘arm yourselves’, in 1Peter 4:1. This means to equip ourselves; it is the idea of having weapons at the ready. We would not consider going onto an active battlefield without the weapons needed to defend ourselves. Yet, all around us is an active battlefield. Each day presents itself with opportunities for worldly thinking, enticement to sin, actions to choose right or wrong, and a myriad of ways to dishonor Christ with our lives. We need to be prepared to stand strong against evil. In your own personal struggles, think of your need to grow in self-restraint.

Genesis 4:7 "If you do well, will not [your countenance] be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it."

1Peter 5:8-9 Be of sober [spirit,] be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in [your] faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world.

Read the promise following 1Peter 5:8-9.

And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen [and] establish you, 1Peter 5:10.

How do you arm yourself for battle each day?

Turn to a well-known chapter in Ephesians. In Chapter Six, it speaks about obedience, attitude, doing God’s will, and finding strength in Him. Verse 11 tells us how this is possible.

Ephesians 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

2Corinthians 6:7 in the word of truth, in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left,

Ephesians 6:13 Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

Think! Are you doing everything you can to stand firm; arming yourself with the truth of God’s word for the purpose of doing His will?

What other tools will help you to live in the righteousness of God?

Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

Galatians 5:24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

What does it mean to deny yourself? Strong’s Greek Dictionary gives us this definition: to deny utterly, disown, abstain. This means to absolutely refuse, deliberately renounce, and completely refrain from your own self, your identity in the world. You now identify with Christ for His glory.

Let’s also break down the meaning of the phrase we read in Galatians, crucifying the flesh. This is a somber picture of being impaled on the cross. To crucify our flesh is to extinguish our selfishness, our worldly passions and desires. Jesus voluntarily obeyed His Father’s will and suffered death on the cross to purchase a place in heaven for us. His life was not about Him, it was about doing His Father’s will. Do we sincerely strive to put to death our own goals and pleasures in order to live for Him? Or do we laugh at sin, crude jokes, and treat lightly the world’s acceptance of immorality?

Jesus’ example was perfect submission to His Father’s will. In Christ, we have everything needed to live pleasing and holy unto God. However, this requires a continual surrendering of our will to live for Him, and a moment-by-moment dependence on God’s strength to fight sin. You will be set apart, you will look different, act different, and think different, and this may cause you to feel as if you don’t belong – well, you don’t! Are you afraid of being judged as too serious about living in holiness?

Hall’s Explication of Hard Texts, poses this question, “Do you labor to conform yourselves to Christ?”

Romans 6:11-13 Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body that you should obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin [as] instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness to God.

Romans 12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship.

Let’s be serious in our understanding of the need to be equipped for battle. We are weak and we will absolutely fail if we try to do this on our own.

Numbers 11:14 "I alone am not able to carry all this people, because it is too burdensome for me. These words are from Moses in dealing with the grumblings of the Israelites. In fact, in the next verse, Moses actually pleads with God to take him out of the picture so that he does not need to continue to be confronted by his own inability.

In Matthew 26:38, Jesus asked his disciples to keep watch with him. Jesus was grieved as He understood the path ahead of Him and went alone to pray to His Father. Read about the weakness of the disciples in verse 40.

Matthew 26:40 And He *came to the disciples and *found them sleeping, and *said to Peter, "So, you [men] could not keep watch with Me for one hour?

We are all familiar with Psalm 127:1, Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the LORD guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain.

We need to arm ourselves with God’s strength. We are to die to the sin which entangles us and draws us away; not relying upon our own strength for the fight, but trusting in God – in Him all things are possible. We no longer live for self; we live to glorify God in holy conformity and obedience to His will.

How would you answer someone who says it is too hard to change, or “I have tried, and I just cannot do it”?

“The will of God, not our vile affections, must be our guide”, Thomas Haweis. In the same commentary we read, “The conduct of a Christian appears very strange to an ungodly world, and they wonder what there is in religion which for the sake of it, can induce men to forego all that they call enjoyment”.

Our confidence is in God alone who holds all power over sin and promises eternal life and protection to those who trust in Him. Let’s press forward in our purpose to be prepared at all times to live for God’s glory.

Wholly Devoted

Hope Replaces Fear

We are to offer our praise to God alone who is deserving, our prayers to God alone who is able, our service to God alone who is the embodiment of love, and our gratitude to God alone who has saved us through His Son.

Look at the last phrase of 1Peter 3:14, ‘AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED’, taken from Isaiah 8:12-13, "You are not to say, 'It is a conspiracy!' In regard to all that this people call a conspiracy, and you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. "It is the LORD of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread.

Let’s be reminded of the context in which this was written. The Apostle Peter was writing to encourage the dispersed Christians to keep moving forward in the truths which had been revealed to them even though they suffered because of their transformed lives.

This encouragement of moving forward in truth is easily applied to modern-day believers. Think of all the things that allow you to be distracted from what is truly important. Our natural desires cause us to want to fit in, to be liked, to be comfortable, and to have positive experiences. We avoid trouble, criticism, and the thought of being different. Others around us may become easily bothered by the injustices they see in their communities, government, and the world. They may feel that a personal call to action is necessary to right these wrongs. And when you do not jump on their bandwagon, you may be ridiculed, or ostracized, for not caring about their passions. However, if we follow the example of Jesus, we will stand firm in truth, yet promote peace for the purpose of sharing the Gospel.

So how do we not succumb to the fear and intimidation of others?

In order to answer the question above, we need to understand why we are intimidated. I think we can easily be caught off-guard; we forget that we are to expect those who do not know Christ to think we are different and perhaps a bit weird. We sometimes allow ourselves to be surprised that others may not think the same as us. We become intimidated when we think others speak wrongly of us, when we are misunderstood, or when others have the power to make our life miserable.

Our security must come from Jesus alone – we are His children, purchased by Him for His glory, justified through His sacrifice. Whenever our security comes from men, doors of doubt will open.

We need to be reminded consistently of who we are in Christ and remember our mission in Him is to share His gospel to those who are unsaved, and to encourage those who are like-minded. We need to fight the temptation of wanting to be accepted by everyone. We should not be intimidated by those who disagree with God’s word. We should also not be intimated by those who do claim to be Christians yet disagree with us. The reality is that we are all different; we see circumstances differently, and we think differently. God is the one whom we serve and follow. God shall be our fear; God shall be our dread.

Matthew 10:28 "Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Luke 12:4 "I say to you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have no more that they can do. "But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!

Pray for a heart of humility – remembering we are saved only because of God’s grace, not because of anything we have done or deserve;

Pray for true compassion for those who do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior – their end is eternal suffering;

Pray for gentleness and boldness in sharing the truth of God’s love for all mankind and His coming judgement of all who refuse Him.

John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

Let’s read our text again. 1Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

Troubled means to be stirred-up, or agitated. Most of us know others who are easily angered; perhaps even you struggle with this. These are the individuals we typically avoid because they are ready to explode at any moment. We tip-toe around them for fear that something will set them off!

Think! What often causes an individual to become agitated? Perhaps things don’t work the way they think they should, or people don’t respond the way they want them to. People can become anxious when they realize they are not in control, or they have made an error, or caused a problem – maybe the right words were not used to convey thoughts. Also, anxiety ensues when there doesn’t seem to be enough time to accomplish what is expected. You can probably pinpoint several situations where you lose the ability to remain calm and peaceful in your soul. 1Peter 3:14 is clear, it says we are not to be troubled. Remember, this was specifically written to those Christians who were being persecuted because of their faith. Most of us will never experience a direct threat to our physical body as a result of our faith. It seems then, our concerns are but a mere trifle in comparison, and the test to remain at peace and trust God in all things should be easy. But we are weak, and our sin nature produces a challenge for us. God is gracious to give us the solution to our negative responses.

“… the Gospel gives the believer a heart assured of God's favor, and therefore unruffled, amidst all adversities. Not only be not afraid, but be not even agitated”, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary.

“If we are true Christians, we have really no reason to be alarmed in view of anything that can happen to us. God is our protector, and he is abundantly able to vanquish all our foes; to uphold us in all our trials; to conduct us through the valley of death, and to bring us to heaven”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

“A most certain counsel in afflictions, be they never so terrible, to be of a steady mind and to stand fast. But how shall we attain to it? If we sanctify God in our minds and hearts, that is to say, if we rest upon him as one that is almighty that loves mankind, that is good and true indeed”, 1599 Geneva Bible Notes.

Consider Isaiah 8:13 again, “It is the LORD of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread”. If we are truly God’s children, then we know He is mightier than any foe, He is supreme above all forces from without and within, He is our perfect peace and protection, He is holy and righteous in all His ways, He is merciful and extends forgiveness to those who love Him. There is absolutely no fear in any difficulty if we fear Him. God always knows better, always acts in pure holiness, He is stronger than any foe, sees every situation perfectly clear, understands each heart motivation, and holds all in His hands for His glory.

We are unable to always see things clearly, which means quite often we do not fully understand. We do not need to understand everything in order to function with a heart set on eternity. We do need to trust in God’s strength, His plan, and His faithfulness. In those areas where you feel anxious or stifled, take the 5th – choose to be silent and not add your thoughts, instead pray that God will clear your thinking of what is not important and give you peace that He is in control of all things.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? – No one!

If you do suffer for the sake of righteousness, consider it a blessing.

There is no reason to fear intimidation; nor are you to become agitated.

How can you apply the above truths?

Look at verses 15 and 16, which offer a solution to how we are to respond to those who are against us.

1Peter 3:15-16 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.

Being fearful or angry requires energy! Concerns and bitterness can eat up our time and thoughts. Instead of being fearful or angry, spend your time and thoughts in ways which are pleasing to God.

Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts.

We are to always be ready to share the hope of the Gospel with an attitude of humility.

What does it look like to sanctify Christ in our hearts? How do we do this? What does it look like to be ready to share our hope?

How do we respond to others in humility?

How does showing reverence relate to gentleness?

Are you able to explain your hope?

“Such a sanctifying of the Lord in our hearts will save us from fear. We dread danger, we dread sickness, we dread death, we dread the eternal world. We are alarmed when our affairs are tending to bankruptcy; we are alarmed when a friend is sick and ready to die; we are alarmed if our country is invaded by a foe, and the enemy already approaches our dwelling. The sentiment in the passage before us is, that if we sanctify the Lord God with proper affections, we shall be delivered from these alarms, and the mind will be calm”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Keep a good conscience.

It is God who has saved us. We are to be certain we are above reproach, remembering we are witnesses of Jesus. The reality is we cannot take care of everyone else. we are only messengers, witnesses for Jesus. We are not the ones who effect change in someone. God is the One who changes hearts and lives. So we are to be focused on living for Him. We are to pray for others to be enlightened. We are to be an example of God’s grace, looking for opportunities to share the truth of the Gospel.

Think! There is no room or purpose for argument or insult when speaking of our hope. We can only be thankful that God has, in His great mercy and grace, saved us, and share the reasons for our hope, and evidence of our faith.

Does your life speak of Jesus? Are you a defender of the Truth? We can lose our focus and spend our time and energy defending ourselves, but this is not what we are to defend. We are to make a defense of our hope.

Psalm 119:46 I will also speak of Thy testimonies before kings, and shall not be ashamed.

2Timothy 2:24-26 And the Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses [and escape] from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.

Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

“Ever remember that he has wisdom without error, power, without limits, truth without falsity, love without hatred, holiness without evil, and justice without rigour or severity on the one hand, or capricious tenderness on the other. In a word, that he neither can be, say, purpose, or do, any thing that is not infinitely just, holy, wise, true, and gracious; that he hates nothing that he has made; and has so loved the world, the whole human race, as to give his only-begotten Son to die for them, that they might not perish, but have everlasting life. Thus sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and you will ever be ready to give a reason of the hope that is in you to every serious and candid inquirer after truth.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary

We have hope because of Him. Our thoughts, actions, and words should esteem God as holy.

“No man ought to entertain opinions for which a good reason cannot be given; and every man ought to be willing to state the grounds of his hope on all proper occasions. A Christian should have such intelligent views of the truth of his religion, and such constant evidence in his own heart and life that he is a child of God, as to be able at any time to satisfy a candid inquirer that the Bible is a revelation from heaven, and that it is proper for him to cherish the hope of salvation”, Albert Barnes NT Commentary.

Seeking Approval of Men or God?

If we are blending in, then we are blundering in our witness for Jesus.

In our study of 1Peter 3, we are continuing with verses 13 and 14. Starting with the beginning of this chapter, we have gone from the command to submit to authority in a general sense, and then in more specific areas. Placing ourselves under the authority of another, helps in the purpose of working together well for the advancement of the Gospel and encouragement of the body of believers. Verses 8-12 have reminded us to pursue righteousness with the promise that God hears our prayers. Now we turn to the reality of living in an imperfect world and the strife that is present between those who seek to follow God through His grace, and those who are living for themselves and unable to see and understand God’s truths.

1Peter 3:13 Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good?

Reading the above verse is a reminder. We should never be more concerned with people liking us, agreeing with us, or even harming us, than we are with holy living and sharing God’s truths.

Right off the bat, we clearly see the struggle! If we are honest, we really do want others to like us. We feel good when others agree with us. We do not enjoy being ridiculed and rejected. So, we might have the tendency to avoid some conversations, and may even try to hide our true identity in Christ, or at the least, not speak of His importance in our life. Do you ever choose to be a little less than honest because you fear the response you will get? Have you ever decided to go along with something you know is not quite right, in order to avoid conflict? Do these things matter?

Peter’s words were both an encouragement and reminder to those who had believed in Jesus and now found themselves ostracized. This verse follows the promise in verse 12 that God will protect His children and hear their prayers. Not only are the eyes of the Lord toward the righteous, and His ears attentive to their prayer in verse 12, the text in verse 13 reads, who is there to harm you? This is a rhetorical question with an obvious answer – NO ONE. So we are given another reason to follow righteousness even though it may be difficult at times. Recall the words which come immediately before verse 13, “the face of the Lord is against those who do evil”. God is our protecter!

No real lasting harm can happen to those who are true Christians. This is a promise! Even physical death will not change your eternal reward in Heaven. Your salvation is secure.

Psalm 56:11 In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?

Psalm 118:6 The LORD is for me; I will not fear; what can man do to me?

The fear of man is a battle for us. If it were not, there would be no need for God to address it in His word. In what ways do you see the intimidation of others affect your decisions?

Ultimately, God will prevail, His truths will go forward, His strength is over all peoples and things. This is not a promise for security from evil and unrighteousness in the world, but a promise that as we strive to live according to God’s truths, He will use us for His purpose. God’s perfect plan will always be realized. Eventually, all God’s children will be vindicated. We have a reminder that regardless how others respond to us, whether positive or negative; or how difficult it may be to live for Christ; we have a purpose and a focus. God will take care of the details if we seek to remain faithful to Him.

Psalm 37:3-6 Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD; and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your judgment as the noonday.

Proverbs 15:9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but He loves one who pursues righteousness.

Perhaps you have seen others turn against you simply because you would not join in with a certain behavior or lifestyle. People like to keep the company of those who make them feel good about themselves. When sin is exposed, they become uncomfortable and often feel the need to justify behavior by gathering others on ‘their side’. Most individuals are uncomfortable being singled out for any reason. It is true that Christians will be persecuted and even suffer. Why? Because they stand out from the crowd! Sometimes, it may look as though dishonesty and corruption prevail, but God remains faithful to His promises. Read with me what David wrote in Psalm 38.

Psalm 38:19 But my enemies are vigorous and strong, and many are those who hate me wrongfully. And those who repay evil for good, they oppose me, because I follow what is good.

In many cases, when a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord – when they truly seek to live righteously in thought, word, and action towards others in all circumstances, – it will be increasingly difficult for someone to act against them. “In this case none could do them real harm; and this inoffensive, upright, and benevolent conduct, would generally in time disarm the enmity of their neighbors”, Thomas Scott. The quote from this commentary holds some truth.

Proverbs 16:7 When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him. KJV

Certainly, you can think of areas where the world’s ideals and your beliefs based on Scripture collide. We do need to be careful – it is not our place to make others understand, in fact we do not have the power to change someone’s thinking. But God does. In every situation, the problem that needs to be addressed is the Gospel. We do not have a fight against anyone; we are to fight for the truth. Have you noticed that when you answer in kindness to a harsh word, an individual loses their fight? There is not much satisfaction in having a verbal altercation by yourself! This causes me to remember a scripture in Proverbs –

Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

We must seek to keep our focus on God. He has a perfect plan and will prevail. He will use His children and all circumstances for His glory. Do not give others a reason to convict you of wrongdoing. How can you apply this in your life? Think of your attitude, your words, your actions, and your motivations – are you desiring to honor God in all areas?

Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

Looking at the second half of 1Peter 3:13, consider what it means to ‘prove zealous for what is good’. I’m studying from the NAS95; other translations read ‘if you are followers of that which is good’. Think of this phrase as a continued following of imitating Christ. I actually like the word zealous because it conveys an active enthusiasm to follow the example we have in Jesus. Think! Jesus lived a perfect life on earth, even while being tempted as a Man. He never sinned, never returned an evil word or act. Even on the cross, He asked for forgiveness towards those who were persecuting Him. Christ did not come to the Earth for Himself; He came to fulfill the will of His Father. We were not created for our own good pleasure; we were created for God’s pleasure, His purpose, and His glory.

Revelation 4:11 "Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created."

1Thessalonians 5:15 See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.

3John 1:11 Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God.

Ephesians 5:1-2 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.

Who are you living for?

Think about your goals; what is your focus for each day? If you are living for accolades from men, you will be sorely disappointed. Even in the Christian community, serving often goes without notice. As a believer, your treasures are in Heaven and in pleasing the One who has redeemed your soul.

Are you willing to prove yourself zealous for what is good, no matter the consequence?

Consider if your decisions are swayed by pleasing others rather than pleasing God. There may be a ‘cost’ to being a believer. Are you willing to ‘pay the price’ in your relationships, in your family, the workforce, your community?

Do you trust that regardless of how others might receive your message, you are secure in Christ?

We are to be zealous for what is good. We can have an active interest and enthusiasm for many things. Our concentration, however, needs to be on what is good – God alone, and His example, “if ye imitate Him who is supremely good”, Doddridge. I pray we are less concerned about what might befall us when we speak and act in God’s Truths, and more concerned about the blessings and encouragement we can share, trusting completely upon His protection of our soul. Proving to be zealous is not a call to join a picket line! God does not need us to hold up signs or shout at others! He desires us to follow the example of Jesus’ humility and love in our words and actions.

Moving forward to 1Peter 3:14. The early church at the time of Peter’s writing was subject to harsh treatment because it was different and opposed to what had been widely accepted. This caused unrest, criticism, disruption, and persecution.

Consider this vivid picture. We have over a dozen chickens. When one of them looks different or even acts different than the rest, it is subject to being pecked on by the other chickens. Its presence disrupts the flock simply because it does not conform. Then as one chicken sees another being bullied, it follows the behavior until there is a division called a pecking order. The underdogs, or under-chickens in this case, become pensive and stay in the background. We call this ‘fowl’ play 😊. Obviously, chickens do not have the capacity to think like humans yet their actions towards change and the threat perceived gives us a bit of a snapshot of human behaviors. Think of someone who talks differently, dresses differently, or looks different. Sometimes, being different causes ridicule or even harm. This is unfortunate but true.

The Jews had been given the Law, they sought to follow it, and were convinced that as God’s chosen people, they had it all together and were superior to others. The Gentiles were happily entrenched in their idolatrous practices which gave them the freedom to live without regulation. Now, from both groups, a movement had emerged which accepted neither of these former lifestyles. You can imagine the threat to leadership, position, and power in what had already been established.

Being a Christian in our culture today, holds little to no sense of suffering. It is simply melded with the hundreds of other ‘beliefs’ people have adapted to themselves. Even so, the reality of living in a world ruled by sin will inevitably lead to suffering as righteousness is pursued. Suffering and persecution may not be life-threatening in your particular circumstance, however, living for Christ will cause you to stand out. It must! Because the pursuits of the world do not agree with the pursuit of holiness. We must be consistent in our loyalty towards God.

If we are blending in, then we are blundering in our witness for Jesus.

James 5:12 But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but let your yes be yes, and your no, no; so that you may not fall under judgment.

“Be ye true and steady in all that ye affirm or deny: not inconstantly varying in what ye speak; lest, through falsehood and unfaithfulness, ye fall into just condemnation”, Hall’s Explication of Hard Texts.

How would your family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors, describe you? Would they use the word Christian, or Believer, or follower of Christ, in their explanation? Would they say you love Jesus above all else? Would they recognize your unusual kindness, love, and compassion towards everyone?

1Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

That we will suffer for the sake of righteousness is implied –

Matthew 5:10-11 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.

So when you do suffer for righteousness, you are blessed – our response should be to recognize our blessing! Blessed means happy, fortunate, well-off, or even supremely blessed. Grasping this truth puts a different spin on difficulties! Not that every bump in the road can be claimed as suffering for Christ; often we cause our own troubles. But when we are mistreated directly because of the truths we believe and the faith we have in Jesus, it proves we belong to Him and that we are living for Him. In this assurance we are blessed!

We are blessed because we have confirmation of our right standing with Christ.
We are blessed because no matter the difficulties on earth, we can look forward with certainty to treasures in Heaven.
We are blessed because we know God is working out His plan for mankind, and we have been called to be part of His perfect plan.
We are blessed because we are secure in His care and protection.

2Corinthians 4:17-18 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Next, we read an encouragement quoted from the Old Testament, ‘do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled’. Once again, let’s be reminded of the context in which this was written. The Apostle Peter was writing to encourage the dispersed Christians to keep moving aforward in the truths which had been revealed to them even though they suffered because of their transformed lives.

Isaiah 8:12-13 "You are not to say, 'It is a conspiracy!' In regard to all that this people call a conspiracy, and you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. "It is the LORD of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread.

Keep in mind and heart the words in 1Peter 3:13-14,

Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

The Pursuit of Peace

God has graciously given His children a ‘road map’ which gives instruction and guidance on how to live blessed in His protection and care. If we seek to refrain from speaking evil and deceit; if we seek to do good and pursue righteousness; if we promote peace; then we will be blessed.

1Peter 3:10-12 follows a summary of how we are to live as believers –

1Peter 3:8-9 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.

1Peter 3:10-12 For, "LET HIM WHO MEANS TO LOVE LIFE AND SEE GOOD DAYS REFRAIN HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING GUILE. "AND LET HIM TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; LET HIM SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT. “FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE UPON THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL.”

1Peter 3:10-12 For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. "HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT. "FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL." NASB95

Verse 10 begins with a small yet significant word – For. This word assigns a reason, or gives an explanation in this case, of the necessity of seeking to live in a manner which glorifies God.

Look at the first phrase in verse 10, ‘Let him who means to love life and see good days’.

Do you love life? Do you determine to love life, choose to love life?

Seriously, we should make a choice to love life. What are your thoughts when you go to bed, when you get up in the morning? Do you view your time on earth as a gift from God or a burden to get through?

We should desire good days – they are opportunities to sing praise of His power and creation; to serve others in labor, and to share the Gospel. When you delight in life, you will look upon each moment of breath as a gift.

1Peter 3:10-12 is taken from the book of Psalms. Consider what happens when you engage yourself in trouble. There is no blessing, burdens abound, and yourself and others are hurt. We are exhorted instead to engage ourselves in the doing of good which results in blessing.

Psalm 34:11-17 Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. Who is the man who desires life and loves length of days that he may see good? Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and His ears are open to their cry. The face of the LORD is against evildoers, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. The righteous cry, and the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

One commentary poses this question, “Seeing all men naturally desire happiness, he wonders why they cast themselves willingly into misery?”, 1599 Geneva Bible Notes.

Notice I included the NASB95 in the translation of 1Peter 3:10-12 above. The word refrain is an imperative, meaning ‘to make stop’. A genuine follower of Christ will seek to live in a way which glorifies His name. This is not an option. We must keep from evil if we desire to be blessed.

Consider your actions and your words – Do they lead others towards God or away from Him? Do we seek to be a blessing to those around us?

Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary says, “The words should be an exact representation of the truth”, he goes on to quote Rosenmuller, and a passage from the Hebrew book Musar, on Jewish ethics written in the 18th century, “A certain Assyrian wandering through the city, cried and said, 'Who will receive the elixir of life?' The daughter of Rabbi Jodus heard him, and went and told her father. 'Call him in,' said he. When he came in, Rabbi Jannei said to him, 'What is that elixir of life which thou art selling?' He said to him, 'Is it not written, What man is he that desireth life, and loveth days that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips that they speak no guile. Lo, this is the elixir of life which is in the mouth of a man!'"

Our words are powerful. Power must be treated with care.

James 1:19-20 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.

James 1:26 If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless.

Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.

“Such meekness is the best expedient to secure your peace and quiet with men, as well as protection and favor with God”, Dean Stanhope.

Consider again the word refrain in our text. This must be taken as a warning and with the understanding that we need a warning because we struggle with evil speaking.

Think!

How easy is it for you to naturally fall into defending yourself by dragging someone else down?

Or perhaps, you choose to lie – just a little bit – because being completely honest might have negative consequences. Are you prone to whisper behind someone’s back?

James 3:2-10 For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well. Now if we put the bits into the horses' mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well. Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires. So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way.

Consider what is being said here – if we truly want to love and enjoy life, to see good days; not in the sense of everything is butterflies and roses, but in our understanding and perspective of God’s plan, then we will keep our speech from evil. This is a treasured ‘recipe’ God has given to His children. When our speech is harmful it is an indication that our heart is in turmoil. Perhaps you are acquainted with someone who is always ‘picking’ a fight, or has a complaint against another. There is turmoil in their heart; they are not restful, not loving life, and certainly not enjoying life. Maybe on the outside it looks as if they are, but inside a multitude of sorrows and problems have taken hold.

Proverbs 3:1-4 My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Do not let kindness and truth leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man.

Proverbs 8:34-36 "Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at my doorposts. "For he who finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD. "But he who sins against me injures himself; all those who hate me love death."

In 1Peter 3:10, our speech was addressed; now in verse 11, action and behavior take center stage. The words used literally mean to eschew, to avoid, to deliberately go out of the way to avoid evil. Again, let us not miss the imperative – “He must turn away”. This is not a suggestion.

1Peter 3:11 "AND LET HIM TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; LET HIM SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.

Romans 16:17 Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.

Isaiah 1:17 Learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.

Romans 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

Romans 14:19 So then let us pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.

Job is an example of one who shunned evil.

Job 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job; and that man was blameless, upright, fearing God and turning away from evil.

We must turn away from evil and do good – not just in some situations, but in every circumstance. Think! Doing good, using kind words and actions, is not so difficult when others are reciprocating in the like. But, when others may not be so kind or cause trouble, or even urge you to fight, what is your response?

We must be continuously set on following God’s truths rather than the world’s troubles. Regardless of the words we hear, and regardless of the actions we see – we are to pursue righteousness. Think of our greatest example, Jesus. He suffered and died for us even while we sinned against Him. I have these words written on a canvas, which is a good reminder – ‘The Measure of Love is to Love without Measure’. Genuine love takes no account. You have heard the words, ‘a tit for a tat’. This is the opposite of loving without measure! It means an equivalent given in return or retaliation. Or ‘blow for blow’. A rhyme from the mid 1800’s in Notes &Queries (2nd series, vol.12, July-December 1861), seems to explain the meaning rather well:

“Tit for tat,

Butter for fat;

If you kill my dog,

I’ll kill your cat.”

Most likely, you have heard a child say, ‘but they started it first’. Then a verbal or physical fight ensues, both parties trying to one-up the other for the sole purpose of ‘winning’ the fight. Unfortunately, adults can easily take part in this kind of behavior because we think we have something to prove. Or we think so highly of our own opinions that we are convinced others are wrong and it is our business to make them think differently. Instead we are to turn from evil words and actions. Instead of spending your time judging another for what they have done wrong or where they need to improve; or feeling hurt and unappreciated because no one seems to agree with or listen to you, maybe looking inside to yourself and see where you might need to change is a better use of time. Never does God tell us to stir up trouble, purposefully causing discord.

1Peter 3:11 in the KJV reads, Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. The words emphasized are direct opposites. Eschew means to avoid, ensue means to follow or practice. We are not only to run from evil, but we are also to run towards peace. It is not enough to just avoid that which is harmful or bad. We are to pursue the things that are profitable and good. When you consider pursuing something, it is a picture of following after something, to be in a quest for something, to search or hunt for something. Pursuing something takes time and devotion. It can be difficult to be at peace with those around you. It really does take effort and having the mindset of Christ’s humility. There is no room for insistence, or pride. In fact, look back to 1Peter 3:8-9, “To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing”.

“A peaceful spirit – a calm, serene, and equal temper of mind – is favourable to health, avoiding those corroding and distracting passions which do so much to wear out the physical energies of the frame; and such a spirit will preserve us from those contentions and strifes to which so many owe their death. Let any one reflect on the numbers that are killed in duels, in battles, and in brawls, and he will have no difficulty in seeing how a peaceful spirit will contribute to length of days”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Though the commentary above was published in the early 1800’s, its application remains the same. We may not describe the unrest we see as duels and brawls, but obvious unrest and contentions in our society have resulted in death.

Consider what might happen if those who were bothered about their ‘rights’, or decisions made in government, chose to do good and pursue peace instead of arguing and attacking? Certainly, democracy gives voice to opinion, but to what extent are individuals to press their words and actions? How might things look different if men were to turn away from pride, selfishness, and evil, and earnestly practice peace?

“Since the Gospel is established as the perfect system of righteousness, nothing can be really good that is not done by or through the Gospel”, Brethren NT Commentary.

James 1:23-25 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.

Dr. Hammond, a theologian in the 1600’s commented on 1Peter 3:11, “Let him eschew evil. Abstaining from all sin, abounding in works of mercy, seeking and pursuing all peaceableness with all men”.

Psalm 37:27 Depart from evil and do good, so you will abide forever.

Proverbs 3:7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.

Proverbs 16:6 By lovingkindness and truth iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD one keeps away from evil.

Proverbs 16:17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; he who watches his way preserves his life.

Matthew 6:13-14 'And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.' "For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

Luke 6:35 "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

Matthew 5:9 "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

James 3:17-18 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

When you consider the scriptures you just read, are you quick to look at others whom you think need to improve? Or are you able to look at your own error and humbly ask God to help you change?

Let’s move to the final verse in this section of study and answer these questions:

Why should we put the effort into keeping our speech and action from evil?

Why should we strive for peace?

1Peter 3:12 "FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL."

When we strive to act according to God’s will, He will hear us and answer prayer. God will continually care for and protect us. One commentary says the original language is very emphatic, meaning the righteous man is always under God’s care. We have His guardianship and safekeeping. This is phenomenal when you consider who man is and who God is. That He would recognize and protect mere man, because he strives to be obedient, is a blessing totally undeserved. That He would hear our petitions and concerns at all times is a truth we can hold.

1John 5:14-15 This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.

Matthew Poole’s Commentary reads, “God watcheth over them, looks favourably on them, and hears their prayers; This he lays down as a motive to patience under injuries, and to keep us from tumultuating passions, and desires of revenge; that God sees all we suffer, hath a care of us, and is ready to hear, and in due time to help us”.

2Chronicles 16:9a "For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His.

Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, watching the evil and the good.

We read a promise and a warning in 1Peter 3:12. God’s love is very real and something that most people want to talk about and receive; yet His perfect judgment is also very real. This truth should be a catalyst to share Christ’s message of salvation to all those will hear.

Proverbs 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous.

John 9:31 "We know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is God-fearing and does His will, He hears him.

Would you rather have the benefit of God’s protection or the judgement of His punishment?

Would you rather see God’s love in His eyes for you, or God’s verdict in His face against you?

Do your words and actions come from a heart of genuine love for Jesus?

What are some ways you can apply the truths in 1Peter 3:10-12?

For Richer

Blessings for Insults

Unfortunately, it is easy to see examples of retaliation all across the world. In America, it has become commonplace to hear of mass shootings which almost always seem to be fueled by revenge of some sort. People believe they or society has been wronged so they set out to express themselves by harming others.

Peter gave a general summary of the expected behavior among Christians in 1Peter 3:8. In verse 9, he gives a specific example along with a reminder of the inheritance we have in Christ.

We are to be like-minded, show sympathy, have brotherly love, be compassionate and humble. The opposite would be to return evil for evil or insult for insult. Let’s look at what this means.

First, the three letters that spell ‘not’ leave no room for exception in these behaviors. ‘Not’ expresses an absolute denial. God forbid, never are we to involve ourselves in these things. The idea of not getting back at someone hits us at the core of our prideful hearts. In our flesh, we naturally want to avenge ourselves, to prove our supposed innocence, and to look better than others. We instinctively want others to feel sorry for us when we are mistreated. Unfortunately we are all guilty of those unbecoming conversations which begin with the words, “Can you believe what he/she did?”. What follows is usually a rendition of the wrongdoing towards us and our quick judgement and sentence of another’s guilt. We then feel vindicated; we become puffed up with pride. Does this honor God?

You have heard the word payback. This word can have either a positive or negative connotation. The negative meaning is an act of revenge or retaliation. It stems from vengeance. Unfortunately, it is easy to see examples of retaliation all across the world. In America, it has become commonplace to hear of mass shootings which almost always seem to be fueled by revenge of some sort. People believe they or society has been wronged so they set out to express themselves by harming others. Note for a moment the majority of lawsuits. What is the premise? To indict a penalty upon someone who has wronged someone else. Obviously, there are absolute times when this is necessary for protection and order. But often, accusations are simply borne out of a need to prove someone’s guilt.

What results from returning evil for evil or insult for insult?

No one is blessed! Strife, envy, pride, and hate manifest themselves in wicked behavior. Relationships are harmed, and seething anger can become volatile. People are physically and emotionally harmed.

It may be easy to see this in the world around us but what about in your immediate world?

Do you hold on to grudges?

Do you resent those who have injured you; do you harbor bad feelings towards them?

Do you feel as if you have a score to settle?

Are you able to genuinely pray that those who have harmed you are blessed? If they are unsaved, do you pray for their understanding of the Gospel?

Think! Without good we would not recognize evil; without Christ we do not understand the depths of sin. Remember why the Old Testament Law was given – to show the Israelites their sin and their need of a Savior to come.

We should not be surprised at the sin among us,

however we must be serious about the sin in ourselves.

As a believer, we cannot be comfortable with our own sinful behavior! We easily see the downturn of humanity in the world, but our focus needs to be on demonstrating Christ’s forgiveness in our own lives. This means we do not react to evil or insults by returning the same – or even thinking the same.

Proverbs 20:22 Do not say, "I will repay evil"; wait for the LORD, and He will save you.

Proverbs 24:29 Do not say, "Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.

Romans 12:17-18 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

Matthew 5:39-40 "But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. "If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.

Is this difficult? Yes, however we must fight against our natural tendency to sin. Jesus died and rose again – sin no longer reigns in a believer’s heart. We are called to give a blessing to those who wrong us. Our text reads, not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead.

Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

Romans 12:19-21 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord. "BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Matthew 5:44 "But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

When we look at Matthew 5:44 and the command to love our enemies, it is not that we approve of their conduct. We should not love the actions of someone who curses and reviles us, and injures our person or property, or violates the laws of God. “Though we may hate his actions, and even be deeply injured by it, we may still wish well to the person; we may pity his madness and folly; we may speak kindly of him, and to him; we may not return evil for evil; we may aid him in the time of trial; and seek to do him good here, and to promote his eternal welfare hereafter”, (excerpts from Barnes’ NT Commentary on Mt 5:44).

1Thessalonians 5:15 See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.

Consider your own unworthiness. God chose to bestow numerous blessings upon your life – regardless of your pitiful state, regardless of your guilt. Because He loves you, He sent His Son to die, to pay the penalty of your sin. How can we who are blessed beyond measure not show forgiveness to another?

Read the following warning in Proverbs.

Proverbs 17:13-14 He who returns evil for good, evil will not depart from his house. The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.

Consider the example of Jesus. He did not return insult; He kept entrusting Himself to God. He did not give up, rather He surrendered Himself to His Father and kept moving forward in His Father’s plan trusting Him to make things right.

1Peter 2:23 and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously;

The admonition in 1Peter 3:9 is not only not returning evil or insult, but also returning good for evil or insult.

"Knowing that you were called to be Christians in order that you should obtain a blessing infinite and eternal in the heavens. Expecting such a blessing yourselves, you should be ready to scatter blessings on all others. You should be ready to bear all their reproaches, and even to wish them well. The hope of eternal life should make your minds calm; and the prospect that you are to be so exalted in heaven should fill your hearts with benignity and love." There is nothing which is better fitted to cause our hearts to overflow with benignity, to make us ready to forgive all others when they forgive us, than the hope of salvation. Cherishing such a hope ourselves, we cannot but wish that all others may share it, and this will lead us to wish for them every blessing. A man who has a hope of heaven should abound in every virtue, and show that he is a sincere well-wisher of the race. Why should one who expects soon to be in heaven harbour malice in his bosom? Why should he wish to injure a fellow-worm? How can he?”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

Luke 6:27-28 “But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

1Peter 3:9 not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.

“Ye are called to inherit a blessing – therefore their railing cannot hurt you; and, by blessing them, you imitate God, who blesses you”, John Wesley’s Notes.

In the past, I have travelled to the warm weather in the Caribbean during the cold months of January in the states. I did not concentrate on packing for the winter, I planned on being prepared for the balmy weather that awaited me.

As you sojourn through your time on earth, what are you concentrating on? Where is your focus? What are you preparing for? Are you engulfed in the problems and pursuits of this world or the promises for your final destination?

“This is your calling-your business in life, to do good, and to do good for evil, and to implore God's blessing even on your worst enemies. And this is not only your duty, but your interest; for in so doing you shall obtain God's blessing, even life for evermore”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

When we remember our purpose, we are less likely to recount wrongs. When we remember God’s forgiveness, we will not remain intent on proving another’s guilt. In fact, we will not want to relinquish our time and opportunities for good only to indulge in unnecessary conflict. We will instead be preparing for the blessings ahead.

1Peter 2:21 For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps,

Matthew 25:34 "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

1Peter 1:3-5 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

According to one commentary, to inherit a blessing is not only passive, but also active. “Receiving spiritual blessing from God by faith, and in your turn blessing others from love. It is not in order to inherit a blessing that we must bless, but because our portion is blessing”, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary, [Gerhard in Alford].

We have the blessing of forgiveness and eternal life in heaven with our Savior. Whatever we deem as suffering on earth is nothing compared to the blessings promised for our future. Shouldn’t we be able to show generosity in our forgiveness towards others? If we consider God’s great mercy shown toward us, we will be more apt to show generous mercy towards others.

“Not returning evil for evil, nor reproach for reproach; but, on the contrary, rather blessing, even to those that curse you, according to our Lord’s precept; knowing that to this purpose ye were called to the profession of Christianity, that ye might inherit a blessing immense and eternal; the expectation of which (considering its infinite importance) may well keep your spirits calm and composed, whatever be the injury and ill usage you may meet with from your fellow-men”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

Are you willing to bear whatever injuries you believe you have received, with a sincere prayer for the perpetrator’s good?

The People’s New Testament Commentary reads, “Hereunto were ye called. Peter enjoins good deeds for evil, and blessing for reviling, because any other course would be inconsistent with the Christian calling. Called to a heritage of blessing they must live lives of blessing, for "as a man soweth so also shall he reap".

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.

Consider the immense blessing of heaven awaiting you. Let us act according to the truth of our salvation.

New Beginnings

You are not the same, you are no longer bound to this earth and worldly thinking, but instead you are heavenly minded. You have a new nature quite different from anything you were before.

2Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man is in Christ, [he is] a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.

This verse begins with the words, ‘if any man is in Christ’. What does it mean to be in Christ?

Being in Christ means you are a genuine Christian, that your heart and life has been changed. It does not matter what ‘religion’ you call yourself, or what church you attend, or even if you have been baptized in a certain church. It is not what you have done, or how good you are, or what your parents taught you. It is what Christ has done and His love for us. It is having Christ dwell in your heart by faith. Being in Christ means you are joined with Him; united to Him in faith because of God’s grace.

I love to work in my garden. In February, you will find me outside pruning our two dozen fruit trees and grapevines. Once branches or limbs are cut off from their source, they are thrown away because they are no longer useful. Instead of being attached, receiving all their nourishment and support from the tree or vine, having been solely sustained by it, they are removed. This is a good picture of not being in Christ. There is no attachment, there is no union, no life to be had; there is no strength, and no purpose that will last. In the same way, anything someone does outside of Christ, or in their own strength, has no real lasting value.

John 15:4 "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, so neither [can] you, unless you abide in Me.

Consider your relationship with Jesus. If you are abiding in His truths and trusting in Him, then you are alive in Him. All your strength comes from Him. You have a position with Him, being part of His family. You are His child, and you have been freed from the power of sin, and freed to the pursuit of holiness. You have been renewed to think upon heavenly things rather than earthly things. This is what it means to be ‘in Christ’.

If you are in Christ, your heart has been changed, along with your thoughts and feelings. What differences do you see in your thinking and behavior? There must be some difference – our verse goes on to say, ‘he is a new creature’.

This literally means new or fresh. You are not the same, you are no longer bound to this earth and worldly thinking, but instead you are heavenly minded. You have a new nature quite different from anything you were before.

“That a change is produced so great as to make it proper to say that he is a new man. He has new views, new motives, new principles, new objects and plans of life. He seeks new purposes, and he lives for new ends … There is a change so deep, so clear, so entire, and so abiding, that it is proper to say, here is a new creation of God--a work of the Divine power as decided and as glorious as when God created all things out of nothing. There is no other moral change that takes place on earth so deep, and radical, and thorough, as the change at conversion. And there is no other where there is so much propriety in ascribing it to the mighty power of God”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

When I consider my motivations and thoughts before I was saved, I hardly even recognize myself. I used to seek approval of others, getting my worth from their reactions. I was afraid of not doing what was expected because others would be upset with me or show displeasure. I tried to follow a set of man-made rules in order to please those around me. I really didn’t even know what I believed or what my goals were. I was fearful of rejection, so I learned to please people. Now, I am much more concerned about pleasing God in my thoughts, actions, and words. My value is in being His child. My strength and purpose is in doing God’s will, rather than being accepted or approved by others. I truly am a completely different person. This is the testimony of God’s work in my life – because of Him, I am a new creature.

Being a new creature in Christ, is more than being mended, or putting a band aid on a problem. It is removing the problem altogether. Love of self, love of sin, love of the world, prejudices, opinions, habits, pride, and selfish ambition, are being transformed to love of God, hating my sin and the sin in the world around me, learning to see others through the lens of Christ’s love for them, growing in the knowledge of God’s will, seeking to please Him in all things, confessing my own sin, and desiring to live for God’s glory.

‘the old things passed away’

This is marvelous, perhaps the best rejuvenation recipe ever to be found! Your ‘old self’ is gone and has been replaced by a new self! Literally, your former ways of thinking in regard to spiritual things has changed. You now look to the future. One commentary writes, “All the old, out-worn conditions of our sinful nature … are now gone and past”, (Hall’s Explication of Hard Texts).

Think! Something cannot be new and old at the same time. We used to be controlled by sin – now Christ controls us. We used to live for ourselves – now we live for Jesus. This is a 180° turn in our thoughts and actions. You were headed in one direction, now you have been turned towards the opposite direction.

Ephesians 4:21-24 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in [the likeness of] God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.

For example, my name is still Sharyn, and on the outside, I look the same. I even have the same soul, but I am characterized by new qualities, new understanding, new thoughts, and new goals. And all are centered on Jesus and what He has done for me. My old way of thinking ended when God touched my heart, opened my eyes, and allowed me to accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Now my life is in Christ – my affections, my motives, my thoughts, and my hopes have been placed in Him. The purpose of my life, the feelings in my heart, the reasons for my actions, have all changed.

“All is new. There are new views of God and of Jesus Christ; new views of this world and of the world to come; new views of truth and of duty; and everything is seen in a new aspect and with new feelings … The Bible seems to be a new book; and though they may have often read it before, yet there is a beauty about it which they never saw before, and which they wonder they have not before perceived. The whole face of nature seems to them to be changed, and they seem to be in a new world. The hills, and vales, and streams; the sun, the stars, the groves, the forests, seem to be new. A new beauty is spread over them all; and they now see them to be the work of God, and his glory is spread over them all, and they can now say--- "My Father made them all." The heavens and the earth are filled with new wonders, and all things seem now to speak forth the praise of God. Even the very countenances of friends seem to be new; and there are new feelings towards all men; a new kind of love to kindred and friends; a love before unfelt for enemies; and a new love for all mankind”, Albert Barnes NT Commentary.

William Burkitt’s New Testament commentary says, “Old things are passed, or passing away daily, the old carnal inclinations of mind are wearing off, the old will is changed, the old life is reformed; and in a word, whatever was old and carnal, is now become new and spiritual” … “the change of the new creature consists in a new mind, a new will, a new judgment, new affections …”.

Notice the text again, it says, “the old things passed away”. This means they have gone; not been set aside or had something added to them, but gone, ceased in their existence. Have you heard someone say, “Well, this is just how I am, I can’t help it”? In Christ, there is nothing further from the truth. God can do anything, He can change anyone, and certainly, He will fulfill His promise of making His children more like Himself. We may not be very successful in changing ourselves, but God never fails. In our own strength we absolutely fall into sin; in His strength we are free to choose holiness.

Everyone who is ‘new’ in Christ should think upon heavenly things rather than earthly. Think! What occupies your thoughts most often?

Ezekiel 11:19-20 "And I shall give them one heart, and shall put a new spirit within them. And I shall take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances, and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God.

Strength to Stand

Beautiful, Glorious, Savior

Today, in this calendar year of 2023, is recognized by most Christians as ‘Good Friday’. It marks the Friday before Easter Sunday when Jesus was crucified. We cannot fully understand the significance of His suffering and death unless we recognize our depravity and need for a Savior. We are sinful. In fact, the power of sin is so strong in our humanity that it condemns us to eternal damnation – forever without the presence and protection of our Holy God. The only way to avoid this separation from God is through a perfect sacrifice – the payment for sin. We must acknowledge the price paid for our transgressions against God – the suffering, betrayal, rejection, and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Jesus is perfect, God’s only Son, part of the Triune Godhead. He willingly was born to this earth in human form and lived as a man. He was perfectly holy, without sin, yet, He was tempted, felt pain, cried, and in every way understood our human condition. Because He is perfect, He never succumbed to the power of Satan’s lies. Instead, He always followed His Father’s will in obedience.

Jesus is our perfect sacrifice, our key to heaven, the proof of God’s love for us, our perfect example of obedience, the certain and only hope for our future. Without His death, we face condemnation for eternity in hell, a place of torment and unceasing pain, separated for all time from our holy God.

Contemplate what God has done for you through the sacrifice of His only Son. This gift is available to everyone who confesses Jesus as Lord and Savior. Jesus is LORD – the one whom we follow in obedience. Jesus is Savior – the only one whose bloodshed offers payment for sin and salvation from sins power to destroy.

Thank you, God for saving me. Amazing, Powerful, Transforming, Eternal, Protector, Glorious in Heaven, Beautiful, LORD. My heart is full of gratitude in the knowledge of what You have done for me, an undeserving sinner, saved by Your grace alone, through faith alone, in Your Son’s death and resurrection. There is no need for striving to get something; only the need to accept what has already been given.

Humility = Mercy

We are not here for our own purpose, pursuits, or pleasure; we are here to work together in unity, as a body of believers, striving for the advance and encouragement of the Gospel … Harmony with others rarely includes the pursuit of your own agenda. Personal feelings and hurts, biases and grudges hold no place in being like-minded.

1Peter 3:8 To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit;

To sum up … You could say, in conclusion or the main point of all that was said, the goal or the desired result or purpose. If you have ever given a speech in school or written a paper, you typically begin with a goal and end with the most important thing to remember. It’s like saying, if there is anything at all you take away from this, here it is …

“Finally. As the last direction, or as general counsel in reference to your conduct in all the relations of life”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Read 1Peter 2:13-3:7

In review, the Apostle Peter gives us the shortlist addressing the responsibilities of all believers; common exhortations to live in harmony towards the same goals. No matter the position or role, there is an expected response to one another in all those who follow Christ. Each child of God, all those whosoever follow Him, are given a lifestyle pattern to follow.

Does this mean in every circumstance and situation we are to strive for harmony, sympathy, love, compassion, and humility? Yes, what else could it mean? Do you read any exceptions?

When we look at 1Peter 3:9, we are given a few specific examples of fulfilling these commands. But for now we will stay with the text in verse 8 and seek to understand more fully each descriptive word written to us. In this way, we will get insight into the possible applications of 1Peter 3:8.

Be harmonious – like-minded, of one mind. Harmonious, is from homophron in the Greek text and only occurs this one time in the New Testament.

“Finally, in managing your affairs as a religious society, be all, whether married or not, of one mind”, Macknight on the Epistles.

Consider for a moment the importance of parents being in unity when making decisions for their children. If they are not, a child will quickly learn to go to the other parent if they do not like what they hear! This only serves to build discord in a family and any sense of strength or security is damaged. Unfortunately, we see this all too often today, with many family units split and sharing custody of children. These kids go from one home to the other often with different rules at each home. Imagine how confusing this is! A feeling of insecurity quickly develops and the children are often left to wonder what is truly expected of them. Unity in decisions makes for a solid foundation.

Unity is necessary in all relationships in order to run well. Harmony or like-mindedness in our goals will affect the outcome of our service. If members of the body work together well, we are blessed with forward movement in our desire to honor Jesus. When we lack unity or harmony, our ministry becomes difficult. As children of God we have one purpose – to glorify Him in all things, and one mission – to make disciples.

The English definition for harmonious reads, “Exhibiting equivalence or correspondence among constituents of an entity or between different entities; musically pleasing”. Think of the discord caused when musicians play their different instruments, and someone is out of tune or hits an obvious wrong note. The experience is derailed for a moment and the goal to play beautiful music together is temporarily interrupted. The words ‘exhibiting equivalence’ denote qualities that are comparable. In other words, each entity involved has the same value.

Think! Is it possible that someone else’s idea may be as good, perhaps even better, than your own?

Does pride keep you from acknowledging the valuable insight and suggestions of others?

Are you as willing to accept direction from others as you are to give it?

What if you really feel your thoughts are right or best yet others cannot agree? Can you concede and be at peace trusting that your vision is not the only one and that ultimately God will direct His purpose?

Are you willing to follow?

1Corinthians 1:10 Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree, and there be no divisions among you, but you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.

Acts 4:32 And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one [of them] claimed that anything belonging to him was his own; but all things were common property to them.

Romans 12:16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.

Romans 15:5 Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus;

Philippians 3:13-17 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in anything ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you; however, let us keep living by that same [standard] to which we have attained. KJV

How can you seek to be harmonious with your brothers and sisters in Christ?

Do you strive to be like-minded in faith, based on God’s word, or do you cause disruption and discouragement?

We are not here for our own purpose, pursuits, or pleasure; we are here to work together in unity, as a body of believers, striving for the advance and encouragement of the Gospel. Consider – a group of individuals where the obvious majority agrees on a certain path. You are convinced that your way is best. There is no sin issue involved. What do you do? Are you willing to relinquish your vision in order to work together? Living in harmony requires sacrifice of self, placing the goal of unity as more important than personal likes or desires.

Harmony with others rarely includes the pursuit of your own agenda. Personal feelings and hurts, biases and grudges hold no place in being like-minded. Rather, forgiveness, grace, and a desire for peace must be pursued. We will never get anywhere by concentrating on the faults of others!

Harmony requires the rare art of truly listening and hearing

someone else’s plan, thoughts, or suggestions,

with a heart attitude that they have something valuable to offer.

Be sympathetic – sumpathes, having a fellow-feeling, mutually commiserative, having compassion on one another. ‘Friendly fellow feelings’ is the descriptive phrase used to define sympathetic in our English dictionary. It is an awareness and understanding for the hardships of others. Synonyms used for this word are large-hearted, charitable, and openhearted. When you put together this description of having feelings and compassion and charity, you quickly recognize that being sympathetic in a true working sense requires some action.

Most charitable organizations are created to help others; to benefit others in some way. A charitable attitude towards others is “a kindly and lenient attitude toward people”, WordWeb. It is an attitude which is quick to think the best, rather than the worst, being willing to overlook mistakes. This is the opposite of being harsh or cruel. You may be thinking, ‘how does sympathy relate to an attitude of overlooking mistakes?’.

Think! When someone is in an undesirable position because of poor decisions, it can become increasingly difficult to continue to offer sympathy for their hardships and suffering. We can easily judge others without even realizing it. But we need to think of God’s sympathy towards us as His children. In general, we mess up all the time; sometimes out of ignorance, sometimes out of defiance. Yet, God continues to pick us up, give us what we need to get back on track, and always extends His lovingkindness. This is true sympathy. He never withholds His mercy towards us. Let us be as quick to forgive others for their mistakes as we are to forgive ourselves!

The word for sympathetic is only used in 1Peter 3:8. A closely related word, sumpascho, is found in two other places in the New Testament, and is translated to suffer with.

Romans 8:16-17 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with [Him] in order that we may also be glorified with [Him.]

The second place this word is found is in the account of Paul explaining to the Corinthian church the importance of each member of the body working together.

1Corinthians 12:26 And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if [one] member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. (cf. 1Corinthians 12:20-27).

We show sympathy to those who are struggling when we are able in some way to come alongside them, to walk through their difficulty with them by giving them support, encouragement, and understanding. Picture an unlit area of wilderness you must walk through. Holding hands with another individual through that journey will not change it, but it will make it more tolerable. Often, just by knowing there are others in the midst of the storm with you will cause you to feel more courageous. Sincere offerings of ‘It’s going to be okay’, or ‘I’m right here with you’, may be all that is needed for success. When we are able to support one another in sympathy, we all benefit together!

We can apply this by truly desiring to come alongside another’s hardships, regardless of our own judgment of their decisions. Remember, it is God who changes hearts and executes wisdom to do His will. It is not our role to fix others or to continuously point out mistakes; it is our role to be sympathetic.

Think! What would be the purpose of writing a long list of failures you see in someone else and handing it to them? Is this truly the way to edify or encourage? This only serves to tear down the recipient while lifting up the presenter. If you are always on someone else’s case magnifying their errors, perhaps you need to turn the magnifying glass on yourself and fight the pride in your own heart.

Be brotherly – from philadelphos, fond of brethren, i.e. fraternal: - love as brethren. This word only occurs in this verse. It comes from a combination of philos, meaning dear as in a dear friend, actively fond or friendly; as a noun it can mean an associate or neighbor, and adelphos, a brother either near or remote, much like the first letter of the Greek alphabet 1, occasionally used in the sense of union (Strong’s Greek Dictionary).

To be fond of someone in this sense is to be partial to them, having a strong preference for them. A fraternity is an organization which has like characteristics. If you think of fraternal twins, they share the same mother at the same time. They are not exactly alike but very closely related. In Christ, we are family. We share in His mercy and grace needed for our eternal redemption. You might think of it this way – we are in a forever fraternity looking to share in the same promise of Heaven.

Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

1Peter 2:17 Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

Often, there is an unspoken bond between siblings in the same family. Even if they are varied in their likes, thinking, and goals, they will come to each other’s aide if needed. How much more is our bond in Christ! True identity with Christ will separate you from the world. However, it will join you with the family of Christ. Your purpose and your goal becomes rooted in God’s commands and love for you. And one of His commands is to love one another just as He loved us, giving up ourselves for the benefit of another. This is brotherly love.

John 15:12 "This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.

1Thessalonians 4:9-10 Now as to the love of the brethren, you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another; for indeed you do practice it toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia. But we urge you, brethren, to excel still more,

We are united in the same family, having the same purpose of glorifying God, and the same charge of making disciples. We are to abundantly love one another!

In what specific ways can you show brotherly love towards your family in Christ?

Is it necessary to be in complete agreement with one another in order to love one another?

Be kindhearted – eusplagchnos, well compassioned, sympathetic, pitiful, tender-hearted.

This is a considerable or substantial showing of understanding and support. When reading the word pitiful, it helps to think pity full. It is being full of sympathy and sorrow for the misfortune of others. This brings us back to the importance of showing understanding and compassion for others, feeling for their suffering, and desiring to help. This same word is translated ‘tender-hearted’ in Ephesians 4:32.

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

As we move through Peter’s exhortations to believers, it is easy to recognize that having peace and love for one another is a priority; working together, and seeking to be agreeable is highly regarded and honors God. If we seriously invest in developing a sincere love one for another, then we will avoid, as much as possible, being the cause of suffering. Certainly, there is no place for hate or attack toward one another. Take a moment and look forward to Chapter 4 in 1Peter.

“… my brethren, {be} all unanimous, guarding against all unnecessary occasion of contention; be sympathizing, full of brotherly love to all Christians, compassionate to those that are in distress, and friendly to all those that need your assistance”, Doddridge.

One commentary suggests the translation of being kindhearted is being ready to show mercy. This supports the command in Ephesians 4:32 above. As we move through the conduct of those who seek to follow God, we recognize certain behaviors are closely related and even seem to overlap in their meanings. We must keep in mind this is not a list of things to check off but an overflowing of love which stems from a heart yielded to God. Having defined each characteristic listed in 1Peter 3:8 so far, it would seem difficult to be harmonious without having sympathy, love, and mercy for one another; and all of this would be impossible without humility.

Be humble in spirit – philophron, literally friendly of mind; kind, courteous. According to one commentary, “the oldest manuscripts read, ‘humble-minded’. It is slightly different from ‘humble’, in that it marks a conscious effort to be truly humble”, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown.

Often, our natural reaction to unpleasant circumstances is to place blame somewhere, usually anywhere but on ourselves. Responsibility for our actions is then removed and wrong behavior or thinking is excused. We are to be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit as a response to our salvation, not as a response to how others treat us or to their own flawed behaviors. In other words, we can be of one mind in our unity of being Christ-followers. We can choose to be sympathetic to those are struggling. We can show love based on our common need of God’s grace and mercy. We can be kindhearted, showing compassion. We need to show grace and humility in our relationships with one another. It is good to remember frequently that it is only because of God that we ourselves are worthy.

It is so important to note that none of our actions are to be a result of someone else’s actions. We are individually responsible to show the same grace and mercy that has been extended to us in Christ, to others. If Jesus were to have died for our sins dependent on our own worthiness, we would all be headed straight to Hell. Instead, He was full of mercy towards undeserving mankind.

Do you see others through the lens of God’s value placed on them? Each individual is precious in His sight. Our life is not about us, it is about what Jesus did. I think of Paul’s words to the Colossian church –

Colossians 3:1-3, Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

Colossians 3:12-15 So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.

Humility in heart extends mercy in action.

For Better or For Worse, God is Faithful!

The Blessings of Being God’s Child.

The Proposal and Acceptance

Happy Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day. In our culture today, it marks the recognition of that someone special in your life. Flowers, chocolates, hearts, cupids, and love letters are all part of this celebration. We confess undying love to those who are important to us, relating to them that we would do anything for them.

So consider those who are special to you. Picture their faces and the relationships you have with them. Each of them has been created by God who loves you immensely – more than you could begin to imagine. Today, as you remember those you love, thank God for His many blessings of friends and family. And most important, remember the One who gave His only Son so that you could have eternal life – all because He loves you!

Does God have your whole heart?

Psalm 119:10a With all my heart I have sought Thee;

The heart encompasses the will and the intellect. All my heart means exactly what is says – everything in me strives to know God.

One commentary says we “must seek God; make earnest prayer and supplication to Him for Divine light, for a tender conscience, and for strength to walk uprightly”. All the while, with a whole heart – all our affections, (Adam Clarke’s Commentary).

Think of the difference between being fully committed to something and just somewhat supportive. The first means you are all in and ready to use your time, energy, and resources towards the fruition of a goal. The second is a bit sketchy. Maybe you will avail yourself to the cause if it works in your schedule or it does not take too much effort or sacrifice on your part. Often ‘lip service’ is the extent of a shallow commitment. There are examples and warnings throughout God’s word of those who lack a whole heart devotion to God. Consider the nation of Israel as they flopped backed and forth in their faithfulness to God.

Psalm 78:37 For their heart was not steadfast toward Him, nor were they faithful in His covenant.

Their whole heart was not engaged in worship and prayer to the God who loved them. God does not want only a portion of our heart; He requires our entire being.

A common scenario we might see today is a couple having dinner or lunch with either one or both on a phone, talking, texting, or searching the web. One might wonder if they are really spending time together. I remember a specific instance when my husband and I were in a small café and a family walked in with three teenage children. They sat at a table near us, and we were immediately transported to a time of nostalgia when our children were about the same age. The conversation around a table at that time in our lives was often filled with laughter as each family member engaged in one other’s recall of a latest adventure. This interaction was an important part of growing close in our understanding of each other. As my husband and I glanced back at the group near us, we were disappointed to realize that although they were physically in each other’s company, each had in their hand an electronic device. There was deafening silence emitting from this family of five. They were physically present but their minds elsewhere.

Think of your relationship with God. Are you engaged with His truths, seeking to understand His word with ears that listen, fully devoted to His worship? Or is your mind elsewhere as you give only lip-service to His name?

Treasure the commitment and love you have with others. Hold them close and seek to be an encouragement. Recognize them as God’s blessings, and bow before Him in thankfulness for the gift of His great love. Offer your whole heart to His name for His glory.

Be hopefully devoted to Him – having the certain hope of a future in heaven with Him and a zealous commitment to do His will on earth.

Submission to Authority

What thoughts enter your mind when you hear the word submission?

What examples of submission are practiced regularly?

Let’s pick up our study in 1Peter 3 posted on January 24th. Recall in 1Peter 2, we read the command to submit to those in authority (v.13). We then moved from a general application of submission to more specific applications. Servants are commanded to submit to their masters (v.18). Our example of submission is Christ to His Father’s will (v.21-24). In 1Peter 3 we were given another specific example of submission – wives to their husbands (v.1). In all instances, submission in a believer’s life stems from obedience to the word and is a reflection of the heart.

1Peter 3:7 now addresses the specific role of husbands to their wives. Fulfilling any role or command in Scripture is a picture of submission to God as our Head. His is the ultimate authority and we glorify His name when we willingly follow His word.

1Peter 3:7 You husbands likewise, live with [your wives] in an understanding way, as with a weaker vessel, since she is a woman; and grant her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

A husband is to live with his wife in an understanding way.
A woman is a weaker vessel.
A husband is to honor his wife as a fellow heir.
The result is unhindered prayer.

‘Likewise’ tells us to look back. The same principle of submission and obedience to the word from the heart is applied to the husband. His submission is to Christ; He is to follow the commands God put forth to a husband. You could say, ‘In the same way’, or ‘In the same manner’. 1Peter 3:7 says husbands are to live with their wives in an understanding way, or according to knowledge in the KJV.

Think! What must one do to live in an understanding way, or according to knowledge?

To live according to knowledge, implies that something is known. I am unable to understand and apply information I am unaware of. So, we must seek knowledge with a desire to understand. This knowledge then is more than information stored, it is information applied. In order for us to begin to try and fulfill the commands God has set forth for us in specific relationships, we need to be able to answer some questions. Since marriage is addressed, this is where we will focus our thoughts. What does God’s word say about the marriage relationship? What does God’s word say about the roles of husband and wife? What is God’s design for husband and wife? It would seem reasonable that the answers to these questions would be the basis to living in an understanding way with one another.

Consider the importance of authority or leadership in any role to a believer – this responsibility requires a careful regard for the encouragement and care of those you are leading. God made a woman as a helper to man – it is wise for him to encourage his wife who is specifically designed to help and support him.

Genesis 2:18 Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him."

Genesis 2:23-24 And the man said, "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." For this cause a man shall leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.

Think for a moment of encouraging those in leadership. Many of you have worked in the education system. You may have experienced students who follow leadership and direction eagerly, and students who disregard authority. How does this affect the classroom? Is it encouraging or discouraging to those in charge?

What are you called to do when you don’t agree with those in authority or leadership?

In 1Peter 3:7, we read the words, ‘as with a weaker vessel, since she is a woman’. In our world and culture today, these words totally do not fly! You could not be more politically incorrect! To be called a weaker vessel because you are a woman is considered demeaning and oppressive. I fear you would have woman’s rights advocates pounding on your door if you verbally promoted this! However, this is what God’s word says, so it is important. It is truth (whether we like it or not or agree with it or not) and must be addressed. But let’s make sure we understand the definition of a weaker vessel. We can jump to conclusions and easily take offense without truly understanding what is meant by a weaker vessel.

What comes to your mind when you think of something being weak?

Weaker, from asthenes, means strengthless – literally, figuratively, and morally. It carries the idea of being feeble, impotent, sick, without strength, and weak (-er, -ness, thing).

Obviously, the definition above seems to be a gut punch. This is quite opposite of the words from the 1996 song, “I Am Woman”, sung by Helen Reddy. You probably recognize some of the lyrics – “I am woman, hear me roar, in numbers too big to ignore … I am strong, I am invincible”. This song actually became relevant in the feminist fight for equality.

I looked up the word weaker in WordWeb and twelve definitions were listed. Among them:

Wanting in physical strength; “a weak pillar”
Wanting in moral strength, courage, or will; having the attributes of man as opposed to e.g. divine beings; “I’m only a weak human”
Deficient or lacking in some skill

And my favorite:

Lacking bodily or muscular strength or vitality; as in “a weak old woman”

Personally, I’m not offended by this, perhaps because I am able to relate!

If you google the question ‘Are women physically weaker than men?’, you will find that an overwhelming percentage of answers say yes. In general, women are physically weaker, they are anatomically different. It is no secret that our world is broken – it is imperative that we seek to share truth at every opportunity. It has become vogue for women to decide they are men and men to decide they are woman. Society, in their own demise, has coined a practice called gender reassignment; we ignore God’s perfect plan of creation and have instituted our own. Part of the process of a woman becoming a man, at least physically, is to pump her full of testosterone. Testosterone is the “key male sex hormone that regulates fertility, muscle mass, fat distribution, and red blood cell production”, according to MedicalNewsToday. All this to say, we know there is a difference between sexes, and we know that men are generally larger and stronger. This is not a ‘put down’, it is a fact. On average, women are smaller – they are shorter and weigh less. Consider why there are separate national sports leagues for men and women, and why they compete in most Olympic games separately, having teams of men and teams of women.

Does being a weaker vessel mean woman are incapable?

Not at all! Both male and female are vessels for God’s glory. Think! Do you consider less of a child because they are physically weaker than an adult? Of course not, it is expected because they are a child. How about someone with a disability who cannot perform the same tasks as others? It is acceptable that we are weaker than others in some areas. Any strength we do have either physical, moral, or emotional, comes from God. Whatever is accomplished by us is because of God.

2Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves;

2Corinthians 12:9 And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.

God did create male and female differences – biologically we are different, our hormones are different, and we have been given different roles in the area of reproduction. Men and women, in general, are also different in the way they think, how information is processed and related.

Think again about a vessel and its purpose. From the Greek word skeuos, it is an implement, equipment, or apparatus – “specially, a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband”. This supports the truth that each gender has been created for specific roles. Neither is more important; however they function differently with unique abilities. Consider how sports teams are organized. Each player has a specific position and purpose. If they all work together, they are successful. Some positions are seemingly unimportant, yet without their cooperation and contribution, the team would not do as well.

God is the one who set up the team of husband and wife. Look back to Ephesians 5:22-33. Therefore, He knows how we work best together for His glory.

Consider this example. I want to plant something in my garden, I need to dig a hole, and I have a hose and a trowel available to use. What would I use?

Obviously, I would use the trowel to dig a hole. Does it make the hose any less important? Of course not, in fact without the water delivered from the hose, my garden would die. Both are necessary to accomplish the goal; they are used differently but work together and are equally important to the success of my garden.

Our last few studies in 1Peter 3 have specifically addressed roles in marriage. What if you are single? How does this text apply? Being single does not mean a person is incomplete or missing out on something. In fact, remaining single has its own strengths and opportunities. Each of us are to set our eyes on Jesus to accomplish His will in our life. Some He has destined to marry; some He has destined to singleness. Both relationships, if founded in Christ, will glorify Him. Contentment whether we are married or single, for whatever reason, will cause us to trust God for His direction.

1Corinthians 7:8 But I say to the unmarried and to widows that it is good for them if they remain even as I.

Whatever relationship we are in, servant, master, single, or married, we are to walk according to God’s commands seeking to please Him through our obedience.

1Corinthians 7:17 Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one, as God has called each, in this manner let him walk. And thus I direct in all the churches.

In 1Peter 3:7, we read another role of husband to wife is to grant her honor. Honor, time (tee-may’), gives something value; it means a high degree of esteem. This word is also used to describe something as precious, as in having high worth or being treasured. Each of us is to regard others as God’s creation, having value because of Him.

1Peter 2:17 Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

Husbands are reminded that their role is to protect, care for, and lead their wives. We have different roles but the same reality in Christ – fellow heirs of the grace of life – God’s riches, His forgiveness through Christ, His promise of a future with Him. Race, gender, age, abilities, and so forth, may separate our roles or importance in an earthly sense. However, in Christ, we are heirs of the same riches of eternal life.

Ephesians 3:6 [to be specific], that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel,

Titus 3:7 that being justified by His grace we might be made heirs according to [the] hope of eternal life.

The husbands’ instruction is to live in an understanding way, and to grant honor to his wife as someone who shares in the same standing in Christ – so that his prayers may not be hindered. The intent is that through obedience of the heart, the husband is right with God. As he seeks to live in an understanding way with his wife, honoring her as a fellow heir of Christ, he will be blessed. Obedience, understanding, care, and honor, are universal to all relationships in the body of Christ. Christ died for all; each life bowed before Him is precious.

Psalm 66:18 If I regard wickedness in my heart, the Lord will not hear;

John 9:31 "We know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is God-fearing and does His will, He hears him.

Psalm 145:18 The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.

In a marriage relationship, there is the blessing of co-laboring as husband and wife towards the same end. Right leadership of a husband requires the heart of a servant. Sin, in any form or thought, will hinder, or exscind, prayer.

Ephesians 4:29- 32 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such [a word] as is good for edification according to the need [of the moment,] that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

1Peter 3:7 is an exhortation specifically to husbands, yet we can apply these principals in a general sense regardless of our specific role in life.

We can live in an understanding way with those in our lives. This might require showing more grace and forgiveness, developing a heart of compassion and care, accepting the strengths and weaknesses of others, seeking at all times to be an encouragement to others in their relationship with Christ.
If we are married, we can help our husband fulfill his role by willingly following his lead. We can show gratitude through our words and actions for his efforts to care for us. We can accept with joy that God has appointed our husband as head of our family. Ladies, if you are married the single most important thing you can do for your husband is to faithfully pray for his relationship to grow in the Lord. Then trust that God is working in both of your lives. If you are single, you can encourage your friends who are married to submit to their husband.

We all have authority to submit to in relationships, and each individual answers to the ultimate authority of Christ. You can purposefully choose an attitude of submission towards those in leadership over you. You can promote peace by concentrating on being a woman who honors God in all things.

Until Death Do We Meet

The Delight of Truth

Excited and thankful to announce my 5th book! Available in paperback and digital. This is the first book of a study on Psalm 119. Please check it out, I would love your thoughts.

Amazon.com: The Delight of Truth: Psalm 119:1-8: 9798842034987: Balogh, Sharyn M.: Books

Proverbs 16:9

Growing in Holiness

What good is great accomplishment or an aesthetically pleasing outside if the heart within is in disarray?

1Peter 3:1-6 In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any [of them] are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. And let not your adornment be [merely] external--braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but [let it be] the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands. Thus Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.

Verse five assigns a general example of wives submitting to their husbands, and verse six gives a specific example. The Apostle teaches the preference of a beautiful heart over beautiful looks, reminding women what is the most pleasing to God.

Examples of the past are a useful tool. Consider how important your example might be to those following after you – children, grandchildren, friends, and family. Will they see a heart desiring to honor Jesus? These women are described as holy, hopeful, and submissive. Holiness must come first – a heart yielded to God – this produces hope in His promises and a desire to humbly obey His truths.

Holy – from hagios, means to be morally blameless. A heart which is righteous or holy, is one that follows Jesus. It is a heart yielded to Him out of gratitude for grace and mercy shown at the cross.

Only God can make a heart holy. Yet we have work to do to. Look at the scriptures below. What habits or qualities are seen in those who seek holiness?

Colossians 3:12-13 And so, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.

Romans 12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship.

Take a closer look at some of the words in the above verses.

Compassion – inward affection and tender mercies; a deep awareness of and sympathy for another’s suffering

Kindness – usefulness, gentleness, goodness; warmhearted, considerate, sympathetic

Humility – of mind; a lack of false pride; no need for recognition; looking to others as being more important than oneself

Gentleness – meekness, humility; mild, even-tempered, softness

Patience – longsuffering, fortitude; a good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence

Forbearance – endurance; a delay in enforcing rights, claims, or privileges, patience

Forgiveness – graciousness, kindness; compassion that supports a willingness to forgive; the act of excusing a mistake or offense

Sacrifice – surrendering personal ‘rights’, likes, or desires

Service – worship; work which benefits another; help, assistance; to fulfill a purpose, role, or function; to devote one’s life or efforts

These words are not a checklist to complete and then feel good about oneself. Pleasing God begins in your heart devotion to Him. These qualities or habits are developed as we seek to follow God.

John 17:17 "Sanctify them in the truth; Thy word is truth.

Sanctify is derived from the same root word as holy. Holiness comes from the truth; our responsibility is to seek to know and understand God’s word.

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, [But] a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.

1Timothy 2:9-10 Likewise, [I want] women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments; but rather by means of good works, as befits women making a claim to godliness.

Look again at the text. “For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God”. Hope means to expect or trust. This expectation is more than wishful thinking. It is to consider that something is likely to happen. Hope in God places trust in Him that He does what He says, He fulfills His promises. Consider God’s testimony to us in His written word. It is alive with His miraculous power and wonder! There is no limit to our hope; there is no limit to God’s power. My favorite definition of miracles comes from a children’s song, “to anticipate the inevitable, supernatural, intervention of God”. Past holy women sought the importance of developing the characteristics spoken of in 1Peter 3:5. They adorned themselves with a gentle and quiet spirit – and this was seen in their humble submission to their own husbands.

“…used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands”. The world is clamoring for our attention, we are encouraged to be like everyone else, and to embrace all philosophies. However, our primary concern should be to develop those inner qualities that have lasting value. Women today are encouraged to follow their own desires and ambitions first, before thinking of others. Words of self are touted, “This is my time”, and “This is for me”. What good is great accomplishment or an aesthetically pleasing outside if the heart within is in disarray? And even beyond and more importantly, whose time is it and for what purpose?

Verse 6 continues to impress submission out of obedience to the Lord and moves on to the more specific example of Sarah. It says, “Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord”. She willingly chose to listen to him, to take heed to his authority. This does not mean she was inferior in her abilities; it does not mean she could not think for herself, or she did not have important responsibilities and goals; it does mean she loved God and therefore was obedient to God’s will. She showed her husband respect by calling him lord. “The word lord has the elementary idea of ruling, and this is the sense here – that she acknowledged that he had a right to direct the affairs of his household, and that it was her duty to be in subjection to him as the head of the family”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary. This is not to say that married woman today should be addressing their husbands as lord. In the time period and place this was written, it was quite common for married woman to address their husbands in this manner. What we can take from this is having an attitude of respect for one’s husband in his position of leadership.

Do you willingly place yourself under the subjection of your husband if you are married, and others who are in authority? Do you encourage those you know to do the same?

Verse 6 uses Sarah as an example to follow. She was not perfect, no one is, but she trusted in God’s promises and is mentioned in the text of Hebrews 11 along with the ‘heroes of faith’.

Hebrews 11:11 By faith even Sarah herself received ability to conceive, even beyond the proper time of life, since she considered Him faithful who had promised;

We can emulate her faith in obedience no matter the circumstances which surround us.

“…and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear”. In becoming ‘her children’, this may refer to being the heirs of Abraham in Genesis 21. Think of this as being spiritual daughters rather than daughters according to the flesh.

Genesis 21:12 But God said to Abraham, "Do not be distressed because of the lad and your maid; whatever Sarah tells you, listen to her, for through Isaac your descendants shall be named.

Galatians 3:29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise.

Notice the expected condition – “…if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear”.

We have an example in Sarah of acting upon her fears in Genesis 18:15, Sarah denied [it] however, saying, “I did not laugh”; for she was afraid. And He said, “No, but you did laugh.” Because she was afraid, she denied the truth. We will also fail simply because we are human, yet the determination needs to be that of full obedience to God.

“They were to do well; to be faithful to their husbands; to be firm in their principles; to adhere steadfastly to what was true and good, whatever trials they might pass through, however much they might be threatened with persecution, or however any might attempt to deter them from the performance of their duty. Thus, by a life of Christian fidelity, unawed by fear from any quarter, they would show that they were imbued with the same principles of unbending virtue which characterised the wife of the father of the faithful, and that they were not unworthy to be regarded as her daughters”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Compare:

1Peter 3:13-14 And who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

Isaiah 8:13 "It is the LORD of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread.

1Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation.

In a yielded and steadfast heart, there is security in obedience to God. When trouble arises, we can pray instead of panic as we rely upon God’s intervention. Remember Peter’s audience – in general it was to all believers in respect to all authority; specifically it was to wives whose husbands were unbelievers. In situations of submission, we need to uphold our loyalty to God’s truths. Fear of displeasing men should not guide our actions. Recall the account of steadfast obedience in Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel Chapter 3. Now remember the account of Peter’s fearful denial in Matthew 26:69-75.

Proverbs 3:25-26 Do not be afraid of sudden fear, nor of the onslaught of the wicked when it comes; for the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.

1Peter 2:15 For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men.

Also remember the beginning of this chapter in 1Peter verses 1 and 2 which correlated holy behavior as a tool in drawing others to know Jesus.

Do you allow the threat of inconvenience or danger to affect your obedience to Truth? How can you combat this?

Are you considering the ornamentation of your heart to be more important than your outside appearance? What steps are you taking to grow in your understanding and trust of God?

Even in those cases where you may be exposed to ill-treatment, are you willing to trust God’s wisdom and promises?

Let’s pray that God increases our desire to grow in His holiness.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Glory to God in the Highest!

The Israelites saw the glory of God.

Exodus 16:10 And it came about as Aaron spoke to the whole congregation of the sons of Israel, that they looked toward the wilderness, and behold, the glory of the LORD appeared in the cloud.

Isaiah 60:1 "Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you.

Glory – splendor. Honor.

The sight of God’s glory was like a consuming fire.

Exodus 24:16-17 And the glory of the LORD rested on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days; and on the seventh day He called to Moses from the midst of the cloud. And to the eyes of the sons of Israel the appearance of the glory of the LORD was like a consuming fire on the mountain top.

Gods Glory: Consuming. Overwhelming. Brightness. Shining. Light.

Ezekiel 43:2 and behold, the glory of the God of Israel was coming from the way of the east. And His voice was like the sound of many waters; and the earth shone with His glory.

Revelation 21:23 And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine upon it, for the glory of God has illumined it, and its lamp is the Lamb.

When Paul saw God’s glory, he was blinded.

Acts 22:6,11 "And it came about that as I was on my way, approaching Damascus about noontime, a very bright light suddenly flashed from heaven all around me, "But since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus.

Jesus is God’s glory.

John 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

2Corinthians 4:6 For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.

Hebrews 1:3 And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high;

The name of God is glorious.

Deuteronomy 28:58 "If you are not careful to observe all the words of this law which are written in this book, to fear this honored and awesome name, the LORD your God,

Nehemiah 9:5 Then the Levites, Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, "Arise, bless the LORD your God forever and ever! O may Thy glorious name be blessed and exalted above all blessing and praise!

Gods Glory:

Radiance. Power. Majesty. Splendor. Honor. Strength. Exalted.

Job 37:22 "Out of the north comes golden splendor; around God is awesome majesty.

Psalm 93:1 The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty; The LORD has clothed and girded Himself with strength; Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved.

Psalm 104:1 Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with splendor and majesty,

Psalm 8:1 O LORD, our Lord, How majestic is Thy name in all the earth, Who hast displayed Thy splendor above the heavens!

God’s glory gives Life. Everlasting Life.

Romans 6:4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.

The heavens and earth speak of God’s glory.

Psalm 19:1 The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.

Isaiah 6:3 And one called out to another and said, "Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory."

God’s glory will last forever.

Psalm 111:3 Splendid and majestic is His work; and His righteousness endures forever.

Psalm 104:31 Let the glory of the LORD endure forever; Let the LORD be glad in His works;

God’s Glory: Holy. Forever.

God’s glory demands a response.

Psalm 145:5 On the glorious splendor of Thy majesty, and on Thy wonderful works, I will meditate.

Psalm 145:11-12 They shall speak of the glory of Thy kingdom, and talk of Thy power; To make known to the sons of men Thy mighty acts, and the glory of the majesty of Thy kingdom.

1Chronicles 16:24 Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples

Isaiah 59:19 So they will fear the name of the LORD from the west and His glory from the rising of the sun, for He will come like a rushing stream, which the wind of the LORD drives.

Psalm 79:9 Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Thy name; and deliver us, and forgive our sins, for Thy name's sake.

Psalm 104:1 Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with splendor and majesty

Meditate. Speak. Revere. Pray. Bless. Sing Praises the risen King!

1Corinthians 10:31 Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Confess Jesus as Lord and Savior. Accept the greatest gift of all – God’s gift of Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection as the payment for your sin. Faith alone through God’s grace alone in Christ alone – the Gospel – is the most precious, valuable gift. It can only be given by God, and can only be accepted because of His grace.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Glory, to God in the Highest!

Captivated by Christ

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We deck our halls with boughs of holly; we purchase a few gifts to give those we love; and we prepare food - all in anticipation of one singular event. Christmas. Literally, Christ’s Mass. This is a special day set aside in many cultures and traditions to celebrate the Messiah or The Anointed One - Jesus. Preparation indeed! I can think of no better thing to celebrate than Jesus!

But what about our heart? How much time, effort and concentration is placed on preparing our heart to seek out the word of God? Why do you celebrate Christmas? Your home may look like it is ready for something special; the tree is up and decorated, the stockings are hung by the chimney with care. How about your heart, your soul – it is captivated by Christ?

In Malachi 3:1, the coming of the Christ was foretold. The messenger, John the Baptist, was to prepare the way for the Messiah.

Malachi 3:1 "Behold, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming," says the LORD of hosts.

And … it happened just like God said it would!

Luke 1:13 But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will give him the name John.

Luke 1:76 "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go on BEFORE THE LORD TO PREPARE HIS WAYS;

John 1:29 The next day he *saw Jesus coming to him, and *said, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!

Jesus was born to this earth, 100% God, 100% man. He willingly laid aside His deity to be born, suffer, and die; to fulfill His Father’s plan of redemption. God purposed this plan because He loves us. And we have a promise –

He will come again. It will happen just like God says!

Acts 5:31 "He is the one whom God exalted to His right hand as a Prince and a Savior, to grant repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

Hebrews 9:28 so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, shall appear a second time for salvation without [reference to] sin, to those who eagerly await Him.

What a glorious day that will be for those whose hearts have been prepared! Think upon the effort, time, and energy you are putting into the preparation of your soul for the return of Christ. Does the Gospel fill you with wonder and delight?

You may have heard the term ‘refiner’s fire’. One website says, “A refiner's fire does not consume completely like the fire of an incinerator. A refiner's fire refines. It purifies. It melts down the bar of silver or gold, separates out the impurities that ruin its value, burns them up, and leaves the silver and gold intact. (desiringgod.org)

The earth and its inhabitants will be purified, the dross swept away, leaving only absolute holiness to stand before God.

Malachi 3:3 "And He will sit as a smelter and purifier of silver, and He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, so that they may present to the LORD offerings in righteousness.

Proverbs 17:3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests hearts.

Consider. When the decorations are taken down, the gifts have been opened, the celebrations have ceased, and friends and family have left, what will remain, what will be left? Will your heart and soul continue in its diligent preparation for Jesus to return? Or is the ‘reason for the season’ put away in a box until the same time next year?

I pray hours and hours of preparation will continue to polish my heart as I yield to God’s refining fire from within. Let each of us celebrate Jesus continually as we ready for His return! It will happen.

Luke 21:36 "But keep on the alert at all times, praying in order that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."

Revelation 22:7 "And behold, I am coming quickly. Blessed is he who heeds the words of the prophecy of this book."

The most precious gift you can give to Jesus is your heart; the most valuable gift you can give to those you love is the Truth of the Gospel.

December 25th will come whether you are fully prepared or not; Jesus was born according to scripture, some were ready to receive Him, some were not.

Christ will return again according to the scripture – is your heart prepared?

Christmas

The Hidden Person of the Heart

When we are settled in Christ, there are no threats, no ‘flying off the handle’, no anguished verbal outbursts, or unpredictable behaviors. There is no sense of giving up or quitting when circumstances become difficult. Rather there is a quiet resolve to continue forward in His strength for His purpose.

In our last study, we looked at the importance of our behavior through our conversation and actions. Now, we look at the heart – the center from which our behavior stems.

1Peter 3:3-4 And let not your adornment be [merely] external--braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but [let it be] the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

First, we need to appreciate the culture in which these words were written. Most of us do not wear braids or have bangles of gold covering our arms and ankles. And while it used to be that women wore dresses all the time, this is not the expectation today.

“This was a warning against the extravagant fashions in hair-dressing and decoration with costly jewels, prevailing among the Greeks and Romans at that period; also a reminder that the true adornment is from within”, Teacher’s Commentary.

“Plaiting the hair, and variously folding it about the head, was the most ancient and most simple mode of disposing of this chief ornament of the female head. It was practised anciently in every part of the east, and is so to the present day in India, in China, and also in Barbary. It was also prevalent among the Greeks and Romans, as ancient gems, busts, and statues, still remaining, sufficiently declare. We have a remarkable instance of the plaiting of the hair in a statue of Agrippina, wife of Germanicus, an exact representation of which may be seen in a work of Andre Lens, entitled Le Costume de Peuple de I' Antiquite”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Often, thin plates of gold, pearls, and small pieces of jewelry were incorporated into the braids or plaits. “There is a remarkable passage in Plutarch, Conjugalia Praecept., c. xxvi., … “An ornament, as Crates said, is that which adorns. The proper ornament of a woman is that which becomes her best. This is neither gold, nor pearls, nor scarlet; but those things which are an evident proof of gravity, regularity, and modesty." The wife of Phocion, a celebrated Athenian general, receiving a visit from a lady who was elegantly adorned with gold and jewels, and her hair with pearls, took occasion to call the attention of her guest to the elegance and costliness of her dress, remarking at the same time, "My ornament is my husband, now for the twentieth year general of the Athenians." Plut., in vit. Phoc. How few Christian women act this part! Women are in general at as much pains and cost in their dress, as if by it they were to be recommended both to God and man. It is, however, in every case, the argument either of a shallow mind, or of a vain and corrupted heart”, (late 1800’s).

The comments above may seem a bit strong, but the principal is that we can spend an enormous amount of time on our looks all the while neglecting the beauty of our heart. In the culture at the time the Apostle Peter was writing, the outside appearance had become the picture of value and importance, thus the need for his warning. We can see this in past history as well as present day examples.

In the above quote it says, ‘my ornament is my husband’. It is nice to read that looks were not the ultimate value however, as much as I love my husband, I would argue to say, “my ornament is Christ”. He alone is whom I represent, whom I live for, and whom I desire to please in all things. The concern then was the value placed on outside adornment rather than the inside heart. The call was to remember no matter how beautiful the outside appeared the inside was infinitely more important.

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Are you more concerned of how you look to others or how you represent Christ to others?

Is it wrong then to look nice – Of course not! One commentary suggests looking around you. The colors of the sky, the flowers, etc. Notice the variation in the animals and colors and plumage of birds. God has made all His creation beautiful. He has painted amazing colors into the sunsets and mountainsides. He has made each individual person unique and in His image. Consider however the adornment of lips. What good are beautifully tinted lips if the words coming out of them do not bless? Or beautifully made-up eyes if what is sought to be seen is harmful?

Take a moment and consider your last week. Compare the time spent on your outside appearance and the attention spent on your inside growth. Your internal soul is of greater value than your external show. “But the allusion here is to the excessive care which then prevailed, and especially to their setting the heart on such ornaments rather than on the adorning which is internal. It may not be easy to fix the exact limit of propriety about the method of arranging the hair, or about any other ornament; but those whose hearts are right, generally have little difficulty on the subject. Every ornament of the body, however beautiful, is soon to be laid aside; the adorning of the soul will endure for ever”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Consider what will last. It is obvious to me that my outside appearance is aging. When we are in our twenties and thirties it is difficult to imagine we will ever get old or have wrinkly or sagging skin. Well, if you are not into spending exorbitant amounts of money on face lifts and ‘miracle’ products, avoidance of your outside deterioration is impossible. The hope is that as your outside matures – this sounds nicer than getting old – your inside is maturing as well. And when your soul matures, it becomes increasingly beautiful! We want to be dazzling on the inside for Christ!

2Corinthians 4:16 Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.

Is your inside shining for Christ?

What distinguishes you, what do you seek most?

This is not a call to wear turtlenecks and skirts down to the floor! It is a call to be certain you are adorned with those things that bring glory to God. You have probably heard the expression, ‘it’s not what it seems to be’. We use this when something we expected – usually because of its outside appearance – does not live up to its promise. These words can be applied to many scenarios. Perhaps you have been house hunting at one point and are excited to see the inside of that well-kept adorable home. The expectation is the outside will be an example of what you find inside, only to be disappointed at the extreme disarray and unkempt interior. How often have you thought or said, ‘well, it looks legitimate’, and found out otherwise? I am certain many of you have purchased an item that was packaged and promoted well only to open that package and see it was not at all what you expected. What additional examples can you think of?

We should not ignore our appearance; it is something to consider. Cleanliness, and presenting oneself as approachable, are a plus in building relationships and sharing the Gospel. For example, it would be a tragedy to have the opportunity to share truth with someone yet the whole while I am explaining the Gospel, they are fixated on the broccoli stuck in my teeth, or the cleavage spilling out of my shirt – you get the picture! I will not get very far if I approach someone while looking like a wild, scary person!

By all means, take the time to make yourself presentable. But let’s not make our appearance our focus; the outside cannot be a cover for the true beauty of our heart. The attention needs to be on God rather than ourselves.

One commentary says the Apostle here speaks not of forbidding a type of dress and adorning but the “pride and vanity, affectation and ostentation, in wearing them. … God will have the hidden man of your heart adorned with grace, and delights more to see that, than your bodies adorned with precious jewels and costly apparel”, Burkitt.

What is referred to above is the flaunting of oneself for attention and to gain importance and attract admiration. Consider this thought, the outside will eventually perish; only the inside person of the heart will remain. If we are led to extravagance in anything, let it be in our pursuit of Christ. Seeking His truths can never be in excess.

Are you neglecting the inward care of your heart for your outward appearance?

1Peter 3:4 but [let it be] the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

My looks are greatly improved with makeup! In fact, as I get older, the change when I wear make-up becomes more drastic. I don’t ‘do my face’ every day but I like to ‘put my face on’ when I have plans outside my home. There are those times when I must decide to forfeit my looks in lieu of getting somewhere on time. This is not because of great holiness though; it is because I did not plan my time well! But, when a decision does need to be made and I only have so much time before I must leave my house, am I willing to spend it in the word rather than myself? Take a moment to consider your busy schedule. How often have you said you did not have time to pray, or read, or study the Truth? Yet, you found time to accomplish other things. For myself, I constantly need to check my priorities and often rearrange them so that I am giving God my best and not neglecting the study of His Word to me. This question came to mind – am I padded well with God’s truths or am I flimsily clad? If I am padded well, the world will have little affect; however if my covering is superficial, the slightest breeze or change will leave me exposed.

Contrary to outside adornment which will decay, let’s concentrate on the immortal part of our being, our soul which will last forever. We are to clothe our inside with humility and meekness, and with piety and prudence, in order to esteem God. The best ornaments are those of the heart which draw others into the knowledge and understanding of God. We must consider where our true affections are placed. If we are saved, we have been made new to live in righteousness according to God’s word to glorify His name. This means we no longer serve sin but serve God.

The hidden person of the heart is my soul – that which only God can touch. The soul is incorruptible which is in contrast to the gold jewelry and garments spoken of in the preceding verse. The inner man referenced in the following scriptures also speak of ‘the inward self’.

Romans 7:22 For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man,

Ephesians 3:16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man;

God is more concerned about the heart of man than the outside appearance of man.

1Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God [sees] not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

1Chronicles 28:9 "As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the LORD searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.

Psalm 51:6 Behold, Thou dost desire truth in the innermost being, and in the hidden part Thou wilt make me know wisdom.

The regenerated heart is to have the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit. Think of inward holiness.

The Greek term used for man (hidden person in NAS) in 1Peter 3:4 is derived, according to the best etymologists, from the words meaning, turning the face upward, (taken from Adam Clarke’s Commentary). This same commentary explains a gentle and quiet spirit, “a mind that will not give provocation to others, nor receive irritation by the provocation of others. Meekness [gentleness] will prevent the first; quietness will guard against the last”. In other words, a heart of gentleness will not easily anger others and a quiet heart will not easily become angered. This explanation makes me think of someone whose eyes are focused on Jesus. When we try to see all things in light of the forgiveness of sin and promise of heaven we have from God, our response to circumstances and people is an extension of the mercy and grace we ourselves have received.

Let’s look at the meanings of a gentle and quiet spirit.

Gentle, praus, means mild, humble, meek. Quiet, hesuchios, means keeping one’s seat, still – undisturbed, peaceable. This word is also associated with the definition of being immovable, settled, and steadfast. According to one commentary, the use of the word spirit, pneuma, in this verse is “unlike any other use in the N.T.” (Bigg, Robertson’s NT Word Pictures). It means the rational soul, or mental disposition. Think of the word temper, not in having a quick temper of anger, but rather having a disposition of gentleness and quietness.

As I consider the definitions above, a picture of someone with a humble, settled conviction of God is formed. There is no need for this person to act harshly or cause an uproar. Instead they are able to maintain a calmness in their spirit through all circumstances because they are certain of their value in Christ and His work in their life and others. They display a humbleness towards God and a peacefulness towards others. When we are settled in Christ, there are no threats, no ‘flying off the handle’, no anguished verbal outbursts, or unpredictable behaviors. There is no sense of giving up or quitting when circumstances become difficult. Rather there is a quiet resolve to continue forward in His strength for His purpose. Do you know of someone who you and others ‘tip-toe’ around because you do not want to ‘set them off’? This is the opposite of a gentle and quiet spirit.

“Of a calm temper; a contented mind; a heart free from passion, pride, envy, and irritability; a soul not subject to the agitations and vexations of those who live for fashion, and who seek to be distinguished for external adorning. The connexion here shows that the apostle refers to this, not only as that which would be of great price in the sight of God, but as that which would tend to secure the affection of their husbands, and win them to embrace the true religion”, (1Peter 3:1-2), Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary. This same reference goes on to describe these qualities as a kind temper, gentle words, placid brow, modest and patient spirit, a heart that is calm in trouble, affectionate and pure, freedom from irritability, fretfulness, and impatience.

Jesus had a gentle and humble heart. His eyes were focused on His Father’s purpose.

Matthew 11:29 "Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and YOU SHALL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.

Do you create trouble? Are you calm in the midst of disturbances caused by others? Are you careful and peaceable in your words?

Matthew 5:5 "Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Ephesians 4:1-2 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing forbearance to one another in love,

Colossians 3:12 And so, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;

Our desire is to please God. Developing the qualities of a gentle and quiet spirit ‘is precious in the sight of God’.

Precious, from poluteles, means extremely expensive: costly, very precious, of great price. This same word is used in the account of the woman who anointed Jesus’ head with ‘very costly’ oil.

Mark 14:3 And while He was in Bethany at the home of Simon the leper, and reclining [at the table,] there came a woman with an alabaster vial of very costly perfume of pure nard; [and] she broke the vial and poured it over His head.

She brought all she had to Jesus. Her show of care was so extravagant to those around that they called her actions a waste of money. However, she knew the truth and offered everything. Jesus did not care about the monetary value, he cared about her heart.

Our physical body is decaying. All that is in this world will perish. What will be left is the yielded heart of sinners humbly receiving God’s grace. It is in God’s sight that we are to be pleasing, not in the vanities of the world, nor the commendations of men.

God is Faithful

Thanksgiving

Heart Submission

The importance is not so much the submission; it is the purpose of submission. Submission comes from a heart of obedience. Being submissive to God’s commands, gives glory to His deity.

We’ll concentrate on three important words – submission, conversation, and behavior. These words describe some of the characteristics of those who seek to follow Jesus. Keep this question in mind – What do others see in us?

Specifically in this case the focus is on wives, however the testimony of our love for Christ through our words and actions is universal to all God’s children. So whether you are single, divorced, married, or widowed, these principles should be applied.

1Peter 3:1-2 In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any [of them] are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior.

1Peter Chapter 1 listed the numerous blessings of being called by Christ to follow Him. In Him we have a certain future; we are able to have joy not based on circumstances but rather on God’s promises.

1Peter Chapter 2 introduced specific sins we are to avoid and the need for our pursuit of growth in our walk. Jesus is our solid foundation and those who follow Him are blessed. Excellent behavior and submission to authority will cause a believer to look different from the world around them. This may be difficult, yet it is desirable because God is honored by our example of His righteousness. We have God’s protection as our Shepherd; our purpose is to glorify Him in all things.

Now in 1Peter Chapter 3, the instruction of submitting to those in leadership over us continues with specific examples.

In the NAS, the first words we read are, ‘In the same way’. The KJV says, ‘Likewise’. These words refer to what has already been described in the previous chapter. The concept of submission is applied to those in governing authority (2:13), to masters (2:18), and now, in wives to their own husbands. We could also include children to parents, employers to employees, and perhaps there are other relationships you can think of where submitting to authority would apply.

The importance is not so much the submission; it is the purpose of submission. Submission comes from a heart of obedience. Being submissive to God’s commands gives glory to His deity. God knows all things therefore we can trust and obey His plan. Submission itself, as a practice, is a powerful tool in avoiding chaos. You have heard the idiom, “too many chiefs and not enough Indians”. This saying may be politically incorrect in our culture today, but it describes a picture for us of everyone wanting to be in charge and not enough people willing to do the work. Instruction gives direction, it produces order, and it encourages accomplishment of a task.

What was Jesus’ example of submission?

Matthew 26:39 And He went a little beyond [them,] and fell on His face and prayed, saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt."

John 6:38 "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

Philippians 2:8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

This charge to submission is not to be forced. It is a choice to place oneself under another, to become subordinate to another and obey. Forcing someone to obey is just controlling someone. Much the same as forcing someone to love – it cannot be done. The action of following commands or saying ‘I love you’ mean nothing if not from the heart. When we view ourselves as being subject to authority, we willingly surrender power to someone else. This is an act of humility – desiring to please someone else’s directive above your own. It acknowledges that perhaps others have a better understanding or more complete information.

Read Jesus’ words, ‘not as I will’. Jesus did not quit when it got difficult, He did not give up on the will of His Father, He did not decide He had a better plan, and He did not abandon His purpose or position. Instead He relied on God’s perfect plan for mankind’s redemption. He called on God’s grace and strength to complete His mission. He chose to trust in God’s plan and paid the ultimate price in giving His life. There is no account of His saying it was too hard, or others were too mean, or that He simply could not continue because He did not like what was happening. His sight was on the authority of His Father in heaven. His example is one of greatest humility. Jesus’ example is that God knows perfectly how His plan of redemption will come to fruition and to honor Him, we must obey and willingly be used by Him for His glory.

In Chapter 2 of this book, we read that in the case of governing authorities and masters of all kinds we are to submit. Similarly, wives are to submit themselves to their husbands. This act of willful obedience recognizes the important role of a husband to lead as the rightful head of the family.

Ephesians 5:21-24 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. Wives, [be subject] to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself [being] the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives [ought to be] to their husbands in everything.

1Corinthians 11:3 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ.

Colossians 3:18 Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

1Peter 3:1 speaks mainly to wives with an unbelieving husband, however the principle to submit remains the same in application to those whose husbands believe. You may be thinking that because you are widowed or single, the understanding of this truth is not applicable or lacks importance for you. I would disagree. How do you encourage your married friends and family? Are you respectful of their relationships? It also might be tempting to spend more time with your friend who is a believer than your husband who is not. What would God have you do?

Think of this simple word picture of walking a dog. How difficult is it to leash a dog and walk it if it is pulling and grunting and fighting every step of the way? When our French bulldog Lily, was a puppy, we would try to take her on walks – notice the word try – and always a few blocks into our walk she would simply lay down, sometimes in the middle of crossing a street, and refuse to take another step. The choice at that point was to leave her, drag her, or carry her the rest of the way. Although this is a silly example it does convey the difficulty to those in charge when we refuse to submit.

Do we encourage leadership by supporting those in charge or do we make it difficult, always pushing our own directives as more important?

Willful submission encourages those in authority. In addition, this behavior also has the potential of gaining approval. Our verse says ‘be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any [of them] are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives’.

“The apostle next gave directions concerning the duties of wives and husbands, as a matter of great importance to the credit and success of the gospel. In general, wives were commanded to be “subject to their own husbands;” and even they who were married to Gentiles or other unbelievers, whether they had been converted since their marriage, or had sinfully brought themselves into so trying a situation, ought to obey this commandment in all things lawful ... This must be attended to in a conscientious manner; not only in order to lighten their own trial and to “adorn the gospel,” but with an especial aim at the conversion of their husbands; which was not so much to be expected from a disputatious attempt to teach them the gospel, as from the silent persuasive eloquence of a becoming deportment. Thus the wives might hope to win upon those who did not obey the word, but treated it with contempt and neglect; as the constant, obliging, amiable conduct, and prudent discourse of such near relatives, would tend to soften their prejudices and conciliate their affections; and so induce them to pay more attention to the preaching of the gospel”, Thomas Scott.

1Corinthians 7:16 For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?

1Corinthians 9:19 For though I am free from all [men,] I have made myself a slave to all, that I might win the more.

Ephesians 5:1-2 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.

Colossians 4:5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity.

Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who is wise wins souls.

Titus 2:3-5 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips, nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, [to be] sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonored.

Note, submission is not based on whether it is easy, acknowledged, or appreciated. Rather, it is based on our love and obedience to God. Circumstances should not be the sole dictator of our actions; instead, God’s love for us and our gratefulness to Him, should cause our willful subjection to authority.

The act of submitting to those in authority, and especially to one’s husband, is considered archaic and even oppressive in our culture today. This is not a popular or accepted ideal. This means we will look different than those around us who do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. By our unusual example, perhaps we will have the opportunity to share truth.

Galatians 1:10 For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.

Proverbs 16:7 When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, [even] Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Does my conduct influence those around me, specifically my unbelieving husband if applicable, to desire the very thing that causes my pleasing acceptance of their leadership?

Is my example godly or worldly?

Consider how the behavior and words of others affect you either negatively or positively. We can be drawn towards another and more readily listen to them and observe them with interest. Or we can be repulsed by someone’s actions, wanting nothing to do with their philosophies.

Read Paul’s account of humility in his letter to the church at Philippi.

Philippians 3:7-8 But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish in order that I may gain Christ,

1Peter 1:17-19 And if you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each man's work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay [upon earth]; knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, [the blood] of Christ.

Fear and reverence of God will result in subjection to obedience towards your own husband and towards those placed in authority. We are called to share the Gospel when we speak; we are called to exemplify the Gospel through our behavior.

1Peter 3:2 as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior.

Whether we like it or not, whether we admit others are affected by our words and actions, the reality is others do watch. Consider a child imitating their parent or an employee watching the example of their employer. We may not be responsible entirely for someone else's decisions however we must realize that our example does absolutely affect others. For this, we are responsible!

The word observe used in 1Peter 3:2 can be translated to inspect, to watch, to behold. When we inspect something, we look at it carefully, we check for accuracy and verification of its source. In this case, the unbelieving husband pays attention to his wife’s behavior. He can either be drawn towards her beliefs or pushed away from them. There is no guarantee that excellent behavior will draw him in however we never want to be the one whose inconsistencies deter someone away from the Gospel. In the same principle, we never want to be the cause for confusion in a believer’s life.

The wife in this scripture is called to be chaste or pure in her example, morally upright. She is called to be respectful in her behavior and conversation. Back up to the second Chapter of 1Peter for a moment and recall its words –

1Peter 2:12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may on account of your good deeds, as they observe [them,] glorify God in the day of visitation.

Ephesians Chapter 5

Ephesians 5:33 commands a wife to respect or revere her husband.

Is all your conversation and behavior filtered through your reverence for God?

Are you mindful of your words and actions towards those in authority?

Are you emulating Jesus’ example of humility in all circumstances?

“The trait of character which is referred to is that of proper respect and reverence in all the relations which she sustained, as opposed to a trifling and frivolous mind. Leighton suggests that the word fear here relates particularly to the other duty enjoined--that of chaste conversation--"fearing the least stain of chastity, or the very appearance of anything not suiting with it. It is a delicate, timorous grace, afraid of the least air, or shadow of anything that hath but a resemblance of wronging it, in carriage, or speech, or apparel", Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

What does God say about our conversation?

1Peter 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; KJV

Philippians 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; KJV

1Timothy 4:12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but [rather] in speech, conduct, love, faith [and] purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.

Our call is to submit regardless of the circumstances, in the hope that our example may represent Christ’s righteousness and draw those around us to desire to know Him. Our behavior and conversation can be used as a valuable tool in encouraging others in Christ. Our submission acknowledges God’s deity, His power, and His right to rule over all.

Humility in the Face of False Accusations.

Our example is to keep on committing ourselves and circumstances to God.

Jesus surrendered His cause to God.

1Peter 2:23 and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting [Himself] to Him who judges righteously;

Hebrews 12:3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.

“To avoid evil tempers, and the uneasiness and danger of avenging ourselves, it is a great advantage in all such cases to be able to refer our cause to God, and to be assured that the Judge of all the earth will do right”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Considering the obvious application of not returning harsh words for those received, I would think we all have something to work on! Even if we do not verbalize our remarks, the thoughts we have which are odious towards others make us guilty.

Jesus was accused, although He was innocent, by those in authority in the face of many present. Think of the public humiliation and shame thrown at Him, yet He did not return insults or even answer harshly. He did not seek revenge but instead prayed for their forgiveness. He committed all things to God knowing that God would exact justice.

It is impossible for man to attain a position of perfect holiness. So even in that rare instance of wrong accusation, reproach for something is probably deserved. Our fight must be to remain as holy as possible, following the example set before us so that any accusation brought against us has no merit. The concern we should concentrate on is to seek to prove our genuine faith in humility before our gracious and forgiving God.

How should you respond when you meet with false accusations, harsh words, and unfair treatment?

Keeping some truths before us will help in our response –

We are worthy only because of Christ – being reminded of this helps to pull down the inflated picture we have of ourselves,

Our value and confidence rest in His claim on us – not because of any claim we might have,

Our hope is in God’s righteousness and perfect judgment – He alone sees all things exactly as they are and He alone is worthy to bless or condemn,

We are to be an example of His holiness in all our behavior – regardless of the circumstance or even perceived atrocities against us. We need to remember love is unconditional; We are called to forgive without limitations.

It is entirely God’s right to use His children as He wills for His glory. Our humble submission to His will proves our genuine love for Him. When we are wronged, responding rightly gives glory to God. This is not an excuse for individuals to mistreat others, but it is an opportunity for God’s children to grow in holiness.

Psalm 37:5-8 Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it. And He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret, [it leads] only to evildoing. For evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land.

Jesus entrusted Himself to God, “who although He commands His people to manifest a Christian spirit towards all, will nevertheless condemn and punish those who oppress or injure them”, Family Bible Notes.

Read Matthew 25:40-46.

Judgement is God’s call alone – He is the only One who is completely righteous and sees all things as they truly are. When I consider what my submissiveness should look like, my mind goes to a familiar snapshot of what it should not look like. Picture someone who must have the ‘last word’. In the following verse, read how Scripture teaches against this.

Titus 2:9-10 [Urge] bondslaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.

The phrase ‘not argumentative’ means not answering back, not disputing, not contradicting, not speaking against. And look at the purpose of this instruction – so that the doctrine of our Savior in all things might be adorned.

Think! What type of behavior attracts others towards the beauty of God’s truths?

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary notes, “Leave your case in His hands, not desiring to make Him executioner of your revenge, but rather praying for enemies. God’s righteous judgment gives tranquility and consolation to the oppressed”.

Ephesians 6:7-8 With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.

Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men; knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.

Notice the words, ‘but kept entrusting Himself’. Our example is to keep on committing ourselves and circumstances to God. This is to be a continuous practice, not a ‘one and done’ deal.

I love what is shared in Spurgeon’s Devotional Commentary, “What an example! May the Holy Spirit enable us to imitate it. He was the paragon of patience, the mirror of endurance. He was absolutely perfect, and yet was infinitely a sufferer, but he never complained, or resented wrong. Master of Patience, teach thy disciples”.

Perhaps you pray these same words I pray –

“O Lord, keep my thoughts holy, my actions helpful, and my words encouraging, and when necessary, keep my ears deaf and my mouth silent”. I want to think of those things that are right, good, and true. I want to always be mindful of serving others rather than self in my actions and conversation. I do not need to hear or know every detail of circumstances and I absolutely do not need to share what I think at every instance.

1Peter 2:24 and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

Jesus offered Himself up to carry the burden of our sin so that we who were dead in our transgressions would be made righteous through Him. Only by His suffering are we healed.

Isaiah 53:4-6 Surely our griefs He Himself bore, and our sorrows He carried; yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being [fell] upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.

We can either focus on the difficult circumstances we may face, or we can remember the incredible gift we have received from Jesus. Because of Him, we are no longer under the power and control of sin. Because of Him we are purposed to righteousness. Remember who Peter was writing to – those who were being treated unfairly and persecuted. The truth they now followed was different than what they had seen practiced. The high priests in the Jewish culture had regularly offered sacrifices for their own sins and the sins of the people. These sacrifices needed to be repeated again and again. The Gentiles had not even been considered as God’s people.

1Peter 2:10 for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

In contrast, Jesus offered Himself as the One perfect sacrifice for all mankind, the only complete fulfillment of the debt owed. Even in difficulties, these converts were reminded to follow Jesus’ example and patiently endure just as He did for them. The same is true for us today.

Is your focus on the problems which permeate our world or on the greater purpose of salvation through the Gospel?

Look up Romans 6:1-23.

Colossians 1:21-22 And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, [engaged] in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach--

John 5:24 "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.

1Peter 2:25 For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.

We were once straying like sheep; we are now under the care of the Shepherd. To go astray means to roam from safety or truth, to be deceived, to err, to be seduced or delusional. We were weak and under the guise of the deception of sin. In this position we had no hope but to stray from Truth. Following the tradition of laws and the idols of men offers no hope for the future. This message was one that needed to be heard then and now. The Apostle Peter offered a reminder and encouragement with his words of belonging to the Shepherd and Guardian of souls.

Remember who we are without Jesus – straying sheep. We walk away from safety and Truth. We are easily deceived and seduced by the world.

Ezekiel 34:6 "My flock wandered through all the mountains and on every high hill, and My flock was scattered over all the surface of the earth; and there was no one to search or seek [for them.]"

Because of Christ, we have been rescued and returned to His care. The reference of Christ as the Guardian of your soul, places His children directly under His care and charge. This is Whom you can place your complete hope and trust.

“It follows that the welfare of the soul may be committed to him with confidence. It is the object of his special guardianship, and he will not be unfaithful to the trust reposed in him. There is nothing more safe than the human soul is when it is committed in faith to the keeping of the Son of God”, Albert Barnes’ NT Notes.

John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

Read God’s promise to the nation of Israel – Ezekiel 34:11-15

This is the Gospel of God’s grace.

We are saved from –

Danger to Protection,

Death to Life,

Wandering to Purpose, and

Despair to Hope.

To say I am convinced in the above verse means ‘I am able, by the evidence and authority of God before me, to depend on with certainty and confidence’ that Jesus is my Example, my Defender, and my Protector.

How do we respond to 1 Peter 2:21-25?

With a heart of gratitude, commitment, and faithfulness
Seeking to live righteously causing no offense towards others, patiently and quietly enduring unfair treatment
Looking to our eternal future
Placing complete and constant trust in the One who knows all things, has endured all things, and will one day cause all things and persons to bow at the feet of His throne.

Philippians2:9 Therefore also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of those who are in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Revelation 5:13 And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, [be] blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."

“But now ye are, by divine grace, recovered and turned again to him who bears the important and tender character of the great Shepherd and Bishop of your souls, who has graciously received you under his pastoral care, and will maintain that inspection over you which shall be your continued security from returning to those fatal wanderings; and the sense of this may cheer and comfort you under any oppression or injuries to which you may be exposed”, Philip Doddridge.

Philippians 2:5-8 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Because of God’s love, because of His grace and mercy, we are saved, we are cared for, we are protected, and we are kept.

Psalm 91:11

Follow His Steps

Consider taking a walk at the beach in the wet sand, leaving footprints behind and someone following your exact steps. This is the conveyance of ‘follow Me’.

1Peter 2:21 For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps,

Verse 21 continues to give a reason for the behaviors Peter is assigning to believers. We are to love one another, we are to fear God, we are to submit to authority even when it is unreasonable, we are to be patient when wronged, because it is acceptable to God that we follow His example.

Christians have a purpose. We have been called to imitate Christ, to follow in His footsteps.

Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

Read Philippians 2:5-8.

Matthew 10:38 "And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.

1John 2:6 the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.

We are to seek to follow Christ precisely. Consider taking a walk at the beach in the wet sand, leaving footprints behind and someone following your exact steps. School age children often play ‘follow-the-leader’ in which everyone behind the leader seeks to copy the behavior of the one leading. This is the conveyance of ‘follow Me’.

1John 3:16 We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

Jesus patiently endured under undeserved suffering. People speak of having a profession. They associate with a chosen profession and with that association comes certain expectations and responsibilities to fulfill. As a professed child of God, you have a pattern to follow, a purpose to fulfill. Christ not only suffered as an example to follow after, He suffered for us or for the sake of us. Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary says this “imposes an everlasting obligation on us to please Him”.

1Corinthians 6:20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

Do you emulate kindness and forgiveness and a willingness to sacrifice self in order to serve others?

1Peter 3:8-9 To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.

1 Peter 2:21 reads “leaving you an example”. In the Greek translation this literally means a written copy from masters to their students. We have the testimony of Jesus’ life written in His word so that we might closely follow Him. There is an exhortation for us, a requirement –

Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

“And I would particularly urge this meek and patient temper upon you; for to this you were called, when you were brought into the profession of the Christian faith; because Christ himself, pure and spotless as he was, suffered not only buffetings and stripes, but deep and mortal wounds, for you, leaving you an example and copy, that you might with certainty trace, and with constancy and diligence follow, his footsteps, and by observing them as his, be charmed to an imitation, even where it was most difficult and painful”, Philip Doddridge.

William Burkitt New Testament notes, “You must bear the cross, before you wear the crown”.

We are encouraged to imitate Christ’s example of holiness in obedience and patience.

Ephesians 5:2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.

1Peter 2:22 WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH;

Perfection – this is Christ. Although He was man, still He was God, perfect in all His ways. Accused of sin, He was put to death and suffered for sin, all the while with no murmuring of sin in thought, word, or deed.

Isaiah 53:3 He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face, He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.

2Corinthians 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin [to be] sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as [we are, yet] without sin.

We suffer because of sin in our lives. Even though we may be ill-treated for a moment, we still deserve whatever suffering we incur because of sin. “We should so live, as the Savior did, as not to deserve to be punished, and thus only shall we entirely follow His example. It is as much our duty to live so as not to deserve the reproaches of others, as it is to bear them with patience when we are called to suffer them”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

1Peter 2:20 For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer [for it] you patiently endure it, this [finds] favor with God.

Hebrews 7:25-26 Hence, also, He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. For it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens;

Jesus is holy. Not merely blameless in actions but pure in heart, completely and perfectly holy. No other could have offered to pay the penalty for our sin. Only through Christ are we forgiven and cleansed from sin. What is our response to this undeserved gift? We are to be humble, seeking righteousness in all circumstances. This is our act of service; this is our example to follow. Christ was perfect in all things yet suffered willingly and humbly. Should not we who are sinful be willing to suffer whatever befalls us, whether deserved or undeserved at the moment, with a quiet and grateful spirit? Obviously, we cannot arrive at perfection, however we ought to seek to follow Christ as closely as possible.

As a people group, we have claimed rights to so many things. In the U.S., we have been given rights through our government in our constitution. It is an incredible blessing to live with the freedoms we proclaim. But let us not lose sight of our purpose in seeking to preserve our freedom. Our purpose in Christ is to proclaim His Gospel, to glorify His name. Jesus willingly gave up His rights in obedience to His Father, for our redemption. Are you standing for Christ or for yourself when you proclaim your ‘rights’?

Jesus did not die for our rights –

He died so that our righteousness may be found in Him.

He died for our sin so that we might die unto sin.

Isaiah 53:7 He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; Like a lamb that is led to slaughter, and like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, so He did not open His mouth.

Luke 23:38-41 Now there was also an inscription above Him, "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS." And one of the criminals who were hanged [there] was hurling abuse at Him, saying, "Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!" But the other answered, and rebuking him said, "Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? "And we indeed justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong."

“Christ was most shamefully reviled, having the dirt of a thousand scandals, slanders, reproaches, and blasphemies, cast upon him, yet he reviled not again not giving them one ill word for all. And when he suffered all manner of injuries and indignities at once, being buffeted, spit upon, crowned with thorns, and crucified, though he had power sufficient to look them into nothing, to frown them into hell, yet he threatened them not with the least revenge, but prayed for his murderers, and committed his cause to a just and righteous God: He threatened not, but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously”, William Burkitt New Testament .

Shelter From Every Danger

Psalm 91:4

All For Him

We do not need to seek persecution for our faith, but if and when it presents itself, we are to respond properly. This is a repetition of the precepts we have been studying for several weeks.

Peter continues to expand on the necessary behaviors for a believer. Beginning in verse 1 of this chapter, the apostle started with a contrast of actions which should be laid aside and those which should be desired. He reminded the church of their relationship with Jesus and the example they had to follow. He encouraged their focus to be on their future security in Christ. They were God’s chosen people, called by grace because of His mercy. Therefore, since their citizenship was in heaven, they were to act in a way which was worthy of that call. Their lives were to be a witness of God’s mercy and grace. Their submission to authority was required; their humility was to be representative of Christ’s example. Why? Because in following Jesus, who was perfect and yet demanded nothing, a believer brings glory to God. Out of a heart of gratitude for eternal salvation, we can choose to live according to the knowledge and understanding given in the Word – even if we suffer unjustly on this earth.

In verse 20, we have a further explanation of enduring for Christ’s sake. There is a stark contrast in the reasons noted for suffering. First, there is the suffering we bring upon ourselves for wrong choices, then there is receiving harsh treatment when it is entirely undeserved. You can imagine the latter is more difficult than the former.

Consider how challenging it is to be quiet and remain humble when you are accused falsely. This has probably happened to everyone at one time or another. Often, our first reaction is to make an argument for ourselves, to justify our behavior and to explain our position. Think of the accusations thrown at Jesus. He absolutely deserved no evil word or thought against Him – He was and is our perfect God. Yet, what was His response? A heart of humility which still considered the salvation even of those who had crucified Him. He asked His Father’s forgiveness for their sake. Jesus was entirely innocent, 100% perfect, yet was willing to suffer unjust and cruel punishment out of obedience to His Father.

Matthew 26:67 Then they spat in His face and beat Him with their fists; and others slapped Him,

Mark 14:65 And some began to spit at Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him with their fists, and to say to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers received Him with slaps [in the face.]

Christ did not argue the Gospel, He presented it to all who would hear. Our charge is not to defend Christ nor the church nor even ourselves, but to give an answer for what we believe in order to make disciples. God does not need us to prove His righteousness; He has called us to be holy as an example of His holiness. In John 14:15 Jesus says, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments”. Our representation of who Christ is and all He has said and done, should give glory to Him.

Be willing to ask yourself this question: Does my representation of Jesus give Him honor?

Back up to 1 Peter 2:15, “For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men”. At times, this involves suffering. Our natural temptation is to justify ourselves. We readily explain why we are right, and we challenge those who treat us unfairly. In our country, we loudly proclaim our rights, we expect our freedoms, in fact, we demand to be treated fairly according to our own definition of what is fair. This is the opposite of patiently enduring under harsh treatment. According to one commentary, it is probable that the individuals who had converted to Christianity at the time of this letter, were suffering at the hands of their masters because they no longer joined them in idol worship. They were being mistreated because they had been called to follow Jesus.

Unfortunately, it may be in our future to be mistreated because we do not adhere to popular thinking on areas of abortion and what constitutes a marriage. How will you handle harsh treatment? Will you endure it with patience?

1Corinthians 4:11-12 To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure;

Look at the question in 1 Peter 2:20 again, “What kind of merit is there when you are punished for your sin, and you quietly accept it?” The answer is none! We all sin. Sometimes we make deliberate choices to sin. Say you are in a hurry and decide that since the road is clear that you can hedge on a stop sign – ‘the rolling stop’. If there is an officer nearby you will be pulled over and receive a ticket; or if there are cameras and your picture is taken, you will receive a notice by mail. You’ve been caught and hopefully you willingly accept the penalty even though the amount of your ticket may put a significant dent in your budget. In this case, the punishment is deserved. You will get little to no sympathy for your error.

In the gospel of Luke we find a similar principle to the one contained in 1 Peter 2:20. Luke 6:32, "And if you love those who love you, what credit is [that] to you? For even sinners love those who love them”. There is behavior that is simply expected out of basic kindness for one another. Think of a child saying, ‘Mommy, I shared my cookie with so and so because they shared their cookie with me’, contrasted with, ‘Mommy, I shared my cookie with so and so even though they had nothing to give me’. Which takes greater effort?

Accepting consequences for bad choices, showing kindness to those who treat you well, being polite to those who are polite in return, are reasonably easy behaviors. Turn these scenarios around and this is when we need to buffet our flesh – being shamed for the right choices, showing kindness to those who treat you harshly, being polite to someone who mocks or is rude. Our response in the flesh is to prove ourselves, to share harsh words and fight.

When Peter addressed the Christians who had been dispersed, they were a minority, and many had left their Jewish faith of upholding the law. This alone caused separation and suffering. Imagine leaving an entire culture and its practices. These Christians then found themselves in fellowship with other Christians who had formerly been disdained because of their heathenism and idolatry practices. You can imagine the motley crew they were! From a worldly perspective, this group of ‘new’ Christians was an upset to those around them, and as a result they were treated unfairly, and even persecuted, because of their faith, because they were doing what was right in God’s sight. They were a threat to tradition and what had been widely accepted.

How difficult is it to keep silent and allow others to treat you unfairly when it is undeserved?

It is understood and accepted that when we err, miss the mark, sin, or offend, we should be willing to suffer the consequences. If I steal something from a store, get caught and must pay a fine I am getting what I deserve. However, the Bible tells us that if we suffer for doing right, specifically in the case of representing our faith, we should be patient and endure that also.

Matthew 5:10-12 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when [men] cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me. "Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Why would we choose to endure difficulty with a quiet spirit? – Because it finds favor with God. It is not the punishment or ill-treatment that gives God glory, it is my response in seeking to follow His instruction and example. The verses in Matthew 5 are not a call to make oneself a martyr. We do not need to seek persecution for our faith, but if and when it presents itself, we are to respond properly. This is a repetition of the precepts we have been studying for several weeks.

1Peter 2:18-19 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable. For this [finds] favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

Our obedience and submission gives God glory. Consider again how difficult it is to bear up under unjust treatment. Under these circumstances, who are you caused to trust? Who becomes your strength and purpose? What happens to your focus? Often, these opportunities cause our reliance upon God to deepen. Our dependence on Him proves our faith. When we go to God with hearts of humility, understanding our need, and seeking comfort in Him, He is glorified.

Further along in 1 Peter, chapters 3 and 4, we are given instruction to recognize the blessedness of suffering for Christ.

1Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

1Peter 4:14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

When our position and decisions are based on the truths in God’s word, we can be at peace. We can rest in the knowledge that before God we are innocent. Our goal is to bring glory to Him with our lives, to be a witness of His righteousness, to encourage those around us who know Him, and to draw those who don’t know Him to His redeeming love.

Therefore –

We are to humbly admit when we have wronged and quietly take the punishment; and we are to humbly submit when we are wrongly accused because it finds favor with God.

“For after all, what glory {is it}, or what can you possibly value yourselves upon, if, when ye have committed an offence, and are buffeted and corrected for it, ye endure {it}? How can you indeed do otherwise? or if you could, how shameful were it in such a case to rise against the hand of your injured masters? But if, when you have done good, and yet suffer through their tyranny and perverseness, ye endure {it} meekly and patiently, this {is} acceptable and graceful before God; his eye, which always judges of the true beauty of characters aright, is even delighted with such a spectacle, though exhibited in the lowest rank of human life”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

Is the time God has given you on this earth better spent in argument or acceptance? In defense of yourself or in defending the hope you have in Christ?

Are you displaying Christ’s example in your responses?

Notice, where your acceptance is to be found. The words in 1 Peter 2:20 say, “this finds favor with God”. We are not to look for thanks and praise from those around us. When we do bear unjust persecution with a quiet spirit, we should thank God for the grace which enables us to do so (cf. Spurgeon Devotional Commentary). None of this is for our kudos or glory. Our responses should be borne out of gratitude for God’s love and faithfulness towards us. If we become discouraged or disheartened because others do not notice our steadfast commitment even through difficulty, then we must check our heart motivation. God sees all things; we are ultimately serving Him.

Psalm 115:1 Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Thy name give glory because of Thy lovingkindness, because of Thy truth.

Romans 12:1-2 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Aliens

As a professed child of God, you have a pattern to follow, a purpose to fulfill.

Aliens are Real!

Picture a room full of people, each given a task to take the pencil and paper in front of them and draw an alien. There is to be no talking, no collaboration; the assignment is to be taken seriously. As you look around the room, you see a mixture of expressions, those who are concentrating, and those who look amused. Are aliens real, or are they imagined?

The Bible tells us aliens are real. It also tells us they are not of this world. They ‘look’ different, and they act different from citizens of earth. This is the premise for 1Peter Chapter 2. I encourage you to read 1Peter 2 from the beginning, then continue on with this study of verses 21-23.

1Peter 2:21 For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps,

Verse 21 continues to give a reason for the ‘out of this world’ behaviors Peter is assigning to believers. We are to love one another, we are to fear God, we are to submit to authority even when it is unreasonable, and we are to be patient when wronged, because it is acceptable to God that we follow His example.

Christians have a purpose. We have been called to imitate Christ, to follow in His footsteps. We are set apart, not belonging to the world, yet in the world. Therefore, our actions will be different.

Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

Matthew 10:38 "And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.

1John 2:6 the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.

We are to seek to follow Christ precisely. Picture taking a walk at the beach in the wet sand, leaving footprints behind, with someone following your exact steps. School age children often play ‘follow-the-leader’ in which everyone behind the leader seeks to copy the behavior of the one leading. This is the conveyance of ‘follow Me’.

1John 3:16 We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

1Corinthians 6:20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

Do you emulate kindness and forgiveness and a willingness to sacrifice self in order to serve others? Warning!!! This behavior may expose your true identity as an alien!