Two-sided coin

The apostle Peter observed there are two sides to the protection coin: God’s power, and man’s faith (1 Peter 1:5).

Commentary from the Turning Points devotional by David Jeremiah, September 17, 2021.

The next victim

Resist him, steadfast in the faith,

knowing that the same sufferings are experienced

by your brotherhood in the world.

1 Peter 5:9

Forever

Man and material are like plants-here today and gone tomorrow. Since the word of the Lord endures forever, to place your focus and your trust in the Lord is to avoid folly.

How to Make a Difference

The Lord has given believers an amazing responsibility – He has called them to accomplish His work here on earth. How remarkable that God Almighty, who can do all things, invites us to participate in drawing people to Him, helping His children reach spiritual maturity, and caring for those in need. Being a servant of the Lord means we put ourselves under His authority, listen to His instructions, and carry out His commands. In our own strength, this task is impossible, but when we defer to God and rely on Him, He supplies everything we need.

The Father always equips His children. He begins by developing Christlike character within us. Then, as we cooperate with His Spirit, God transforms a self-centered heart into the heart of a servant who delights in meeting others’ needs. And the Lord also bestows the spiritual gift needed for the specific work He’s appointed each believer to do.

The invitation is issued; the strength and ability are provided. All that is needed are some willing servants to participate in the most exciting adventure on earth. Join with the Lord in His work, use your spiritual gifts, and make an impact for Christ in this world.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, November 25, 2020.

He cares for you

Christians are to cast all of their discontent, discouragement, despair, and suffering on the Lord, and trust Him for knowing what He’s doing with their lives. Along with submission (v. 5) and humility (vv. 5,6), trust in God is the third attitude necessary for victorious Christian living.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for 1 Peter 5:7.

Responding to Our Culture

Live in submissive communion with the Lord Jesus, loving and obeying Him – and you have nothing to fear.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for 1 Peter 3:15.

Responding to Our Culture

Be willing to suffer or be misunderstood.

Since the world finds holiness, obedience, and reverence for God confusing or even offensive, taking a stand for righteousness may bring you criticism instead of praise.  Don’t fear the intimidation, you are blessed (Matthew 5:10).

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, July 23, 2020.

Blessing-given and giving

The blessing that a Christian is to give to the reviler includes finding ways to serve him, praying for his salvation or spiritual progress, expressing thankfulness for him, speaking well of him, and desiring his well-being.  A person whom God has given undeserved blessings instead of judgement, should seek the blessing he will receive when giving a free gift of forgiveness to someone who has wronged him.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for 1 Peter 3:9.