11 26 Psalm 145:1-21 Thinking back over this past year, for what are you giving God thanks and praise? In this Psalm written be David, he unwraps four things he is thankful for. Read through the Psalm and see if you can resonate with him the same thanksgiving. In this Psalm David gives praise for God’s greatness, grace, goodness, and glory. David’s praise was both personal and perpetual as ours should be.
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11 19 I Peter 4:12-19 Peter’s words at first don’t seem to be very comforting or encouraging. Expect persecution. There will be judgment. Taking a closer look at these final remarks on persecution they are affirming. Affirming in the sense that persecution is a tell-tale sign you belong to Christ. Jesus said if He was persecuted for doing good then His followers should expect it as well. But persecution isn’t about judgment, it’s about refining us into His image. While persecution is painful, Peter stresses that we are to respond in praise because it has a purpose. Continue to trust the One who is always faithful and in spite of what you may be suffering, continue to do good. We may not know the why, but we know the Who and He will never leave or forsake you but journey with you through your persecution.
11 12 I Peter 4:10-11 In the middle of a text on persecution Peter encourages believers to exercise their spiritual gift for the benefit of each other and for the glory of God. Some questions arise then. Do you know what your spiritual gift is and if so are you using it? If you know what your spiritual gift and aren’t using it, why not? The body of Christ is weakened when you are inactive with your gift and God is not receiving glory from its use. If you don’t know what your spiritual gift is ask God who wants you to know it so others can be blessed and He can be glorified. Start acting on it today.
11 05 I Peter 4:7-9 Times of difficulty like persecution can be times of chaos and panic. They can be times of hand wringing and confusion. Peter provides some advice for Christians to counteract those feelings. In these verses persecution is a call to urgent preparation, earnest prayer and specific practices. In such times we should put aside petty issues with other Christians and demonstrate deep love that looks past those grievances. Additionally there should be cheerful hospitality. During such difficult times, Christians need each other for comfort and encouragement.