1 Peter 4
Living for God
1Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. 2As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. 3For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. 5But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
7The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 11If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Suffering for Being a Christian
12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"[a]
19So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
Footnotes:
a. 1 Peter 4:18 Prov 11:31.
5 comments:
will read...probably cant post today
Verse 4...couldnt help but think of all those times in my life, especially when i was in college, when i tried to take the "Christian" path while all of my friends were doing the typical college things. It was hard. Sometimes, i was able to stay on a righteous path. Sometimes, and probably more times than not, i ended going down the non-Christian path and following my friends. Over time, i have been able to strengthen my faith so that i dont (always) get swayed by non-believers. But, i'll admit, it is still hard. Just last night, i was invited to a very upscale, all men's country club for dinner. they want me and my brother to join. It's the who's who in Philly. Every car in the parking lot was a porsche, bmw, mercedes, bentley. honestly, it was like a luxury car dealership. The talk at the table was, well, not exactly honoring God. I admit, i said grace to myself, but didnt bow my head so others could see. I refrained from making any inappropriate comments (like the ones being made). But it was a hard place to be. Just didnt feel like i fit in (not that i could afford it anyway!) and just felt like God was not honored by the discussion. dont get me wrong, it wasnt really bad, but just not honoring. anyway, my point is that even today, verse 4 stands as a good reminder.
Hope you all have a good weekend.
1 Pet 4
Glad to see you back jmb. Now, how about a little lrt and er!!!
I agree timmcd, it has been a monumental struggle for me as well. Especially in college!!! Right ER??? I can only thank God for his grace that I am even still alive to be honest. I just pray that he will give me the strength and courage to live fearlessly for Him from now on.
Thought verse 6 was great to know
6For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
People always ask question related to those who never hear before they die. Well???
Sounds like from v 8 that Rick Warren has read this book. Considering his recommendation as a morning prayer before stepping out of bed is that if you do not do anything else today, may you spend time loving God and loving others!!!
Gotta another WOW. Did v 11 hit everyone as hard as me? That is major!
Father, I lift up SF this morning. Help the doctors quickly identify and treat her. Give her and timmcd a great peace over the next few months as they near their holy union together with You. May they only grow deeper in and deeper as they soon will be one. I especially pray for timmcd, that he can learn to give the kind of love that can only originate from You Father.
May we all willingly rejoice in suffering for your name.
In Christ,
cas
1 Pet 4
Right there with you guys. Being in grad school I get a whole different slant on the abuse level. None to my face, but many of those around me find themselves "too smart" for religion, and often find themselves smacking down religion. I do my best to squash it when I get a chance, but probably don't do it nearly enough.
I certainly am comforted as always by the thought that we will all struggle for God as that's a true sign of growing into Christ.
My prayer request today is a little self-control. I've hit a major obstacle at work, and responded at first by trying to plow through it, but the last week or so has been met with complete avoidance behavior and I haven't accomplished anything, nor even tried. Just done petty stuff, websurfed, played games, etc. I need the self control to just buckle down and get things done because I know thats what I'm supposed to do, and its the only way to get past this hurdle. Regardless, if you get a chance to pray today, I'd appreciate it.
Father, thank you for these men, for the deep-rooted desire to get to know you more, and the desire to change. Now I ask You to help encourage me to focus on You and start having the gumption to get it done. I thank You for my family, and ask that I have the strength to love them as I should, as You love us. Please watch over SF and give her and timmcd6 some comfort of the mind, as well as physical comfort, and place the right healer in the right place, that they may have some relief. We ask all these things in Jesus' name
crb
gys, thanks for the prayers for SF, my fiance. I really appreciate it. there is good and bad news. the good is that the rash that is on her is not harmful or contagious. the bad is that it takes 6-14 weeks for it to heal and go away. our wedding is 9 1/2 weeks away. She is so upset and so sad. it really stinks. Guys, i really need you to pray for her. I know this isnt life threatening and there are much more serious ailments to be praying for, but i want her so badly to feel "beautiful" on her big day. with all eyes on her, i know she will be so upset it she still has this. Please pray that the virus and spots are gone before the wedding. Thanks.
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