Scripture –
1 Peter 4:19 – Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
Observation –
Peter is concluding chapter 4 by saying we are to live for Christ and follow His will for our life which will include suffering. We trust our souls to our always faithful unchanging Creator God. As a response to the grace of God’s love and salvation, we are live out our faith in good works thereby pointing others towards Him.
Application –
We are called to follow God’s will not out of human motivation but in response to a changed heart/life by the love of the Gospel. There is going to be suffering in this life on earth. The question is are we going to suffer out of human desires/sin or suffer for God’s will to follow Him who has given us everything? God has formed us in our mother’s womb, given us each breath that we take and paid our sin debt in full through Jesus’ sacrificial death for all who believe in His name. We are to live a life of love and service for others not to have more good days to earn salvation but to share the love of Christ that we have received and glorify Him.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for this encouraging word from Peter to the early church in places where persecution was real and part of daily life. Let your word/Spirit give me strength and courage to follow your will no matter the obstacles or the cost. Let my suffering be to honor you not my own desires.