1 Peter 1:8 (NIV)
Though you have not seen him [Jesus Christ], you
love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are
filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy…
1 Peter 1:13 (NIV)
Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be
self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus
Christ is revealed.
1 Peter 4:7 (NIV)
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear
minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.
I
enjoy reading the first epistle of Peter. It is a message to all Christians,
urging all Christians toward a life of holiness. Sometimes I like to think of
it as living a life of “set-apart-ness” from worldly perspectives. Over and
over again, Peter reminds Christians to prepare their minds, be clear minded,
be self-controlled—all qualities that are increasingly difficult to maintain
during these troubled days.
The irony is that it is all too
easy to become bogged down in what can be seen (e.g., the negative news of the
day); and to forget that which is unseen (e.g., Jesus Christ). Staying clear
minded and self-controlled will enable us to remember that what is seen is
temporary, but what is now unseen will be everlasting. And this, dear friends,
is what brings us inexpressible and glorious joy!
Gracious Heavenly Father,
Forgive us when we become so bogged down with
worldly issues that we forget to look up toward you. Thank you for the promised
return of Jesus Christ, he who is the ultimate Grace.
In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.
Respectfully written and submitted by
Dotty Willmon, Resurrection Christian—looking for
the blessed hope of Christ’s return!
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