SCRIPTURE
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 1 Peter 1:3-4
OBSERVATION
Peter exhorts believers who are scattered exiles encountering hardships, persecution and have had life’s rug pulled out from under them. He pulls no punches calling them to look beyond their circumstances, reminding them of their identity, living hope in Jesus, and future inheritance.
APPLICATION
How do I respond when I’m displaced, rejected, despised, feel isolated and alone? God is reminding me to not lose hope. Life is hard. Relationships can be painful. Financial situations can be daunting. Health issues can be frightening.
I am reminded of my new creation status through Jesus.
I am reminded that no matter the circumstances, Jesus is my living hope.
I am reminded to seek and savor in Father God’s great mercy and grace.
I am reminded that there is more to life, than this life. This life is temporary. I have an eternal inheritance.
PRAYER
Dear Godhead,
Thank you for being my living hope and for totally understanding that I can easily be distracted. Please help my thoughts and heart to be filled with Your truthful reminders – I have a living hope in You, even when I feel like I’m losing hope. You’re soooooo Awesome in grace and love! Thanks so much for being a kind, loving and great personal God!
