As we gather on this blessed Lord’s Day, I want to talk about a vital aspect of our Christian life—hope.
In 1 Peter chapter 5, Peter concludes his first letter by reminding us of the ever-present hope we have as Christians. Despite the fiery trials we may face, hope remains our steadfast anchor. Throughout this letter, Peter offers several reasons for our enduring hope, even amid challenges and tribulations.
One significant reason for hope is God’s grace. In 1 Peter 5:10, Peter refers to God as the “God of all grace,” who has called us to His eternal glory in Christ. This grace is manifold, meaning it is abundant and diverse, catering to our individual needs and gifts. It’s a reminder that grace is a gift we receive and not something we earn. By faith, we stand in this true grace of God, as highlighted in 1 Peter 5:12.
God’s grace calls us to His eternal glory, as stated in 1 Peter 5:10. This glory involves an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance reserved in heaven for us (1 Peter 1:4). Our Christian journey towards this glory might involve suffering, akin to what Christ experienced. However, this suffering is temporary, and it’s vastly outweighed by the eternal glory awaiting us.
Moreover, suffering, while temporary, brings about blessings. God uses it as a tool to perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle us. Trials lead to perseverance, which builds character and culminates in hope (Romans 5:3-4). God also uses His Word to equip us for every good work, as mentioned in 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
Peter closes his letter with greetings from his fellow believers and an exhortation of love. He urges us to greet one another with a kiss of love and prays for peace to all who are in Christ Jesus. This fellowship and mutual support are crucial in maintaining our hope.
As we reflect on Peter’s confidence and teachings, let’s ask ourselves: Do we possess this hope? To embrace this hope, we need to hear and believe the gospel, repent of our sins, confess Jesus as Lord, be baptized for the remission of sins, and remain faithful unto death. In doing so, we strive for the crown of life promised by Jesus.
If you’re struggling with maintaining this hope or need to realign your life with God, now is the time.
Remember, we are not guaranteed tomorrow, so let’s make our decision today.
