SCRIPTURE
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. 11 To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.
OBSERVATION
The context includes relationships in the family of God involving spiritual leadership, authority, respect, submission.
Just a few sentences before the above passage, Peter warns followers in 4:7, The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
The need for humility, love, self-control while being aware of spiritual warfare is much needed. Relationships can be sticky, even ugly with the disease of pride looming in all of our hearts. Even in Peter’s day, he warns that “the end is near!” It’s as if he is calling us to be very aware, alert, and watchful: of our hearts, relationships, and spiritual surroundings.
Who is spiritually influentional in our lives? God? His truth? The devil? False teachers? Fellow disciples? The world? Who or what is strengthening or affecting our faith in Jesus?
APPLICATION
These are commitments I need to make to help me strengthen my faith.
- Humility under God especially when my pride swells when I’m tested.
- Releasing anxiety through clear minded, self-controlled (disciplined) prayer.
- Be aware of spiritual warfare. Resist the devil.
- Be mindful that I’m “not the only one” going through challenges.
- Remind my heart and mind that MY GOD IS FULL OF GRACE.
PRAYER
Dear Godhead! To YOU be the power, glory, honor…forever…starting right now from my heart. I worship YOU for YOU are the Greatest GOD! I love YOU!
