If there was ever a time to exponentially increase our prayer and Bible study, it is now. In light of recent events, it’s time to take our time on earth way more seriously and our Father in heaven way more seriously. Engraved on my Bible is 1 Peter 4:1. I felt led to read verses 1 through 9 this morning and boy, do I thank the Lord for this inspired Word. It is so enlightening!

In my own limited understanding of 1Peter 4: 1-9…

A. The Overall Battle Plan-Peter compares our new life in Christ as a battle that’s ongoing. We are to arm ourselves with the right kind of thinking. No longer do we focus on selfish or sinful things we could enjoy; because we have been raised to new life in Christ, we do not strive for the flesh, but for God’s will. (v.1)

Hmm…Do I STRIVE for this or do I often relax, because I feel I have it figured out?

B. The Death of Sin- Peter says we are to live for Christ, since we have died to sin. I like how he says “the time is past” for pleasing ourselves and pursuing earthly pleasures like drunkeness, passions, sensualities and other things. People will judge and criticize you, as they are surprised at your not joining in their “debauchery.” However…We and they should fear God’s judgement, as EVERYONE will be judged.(v.4-5)

Hmm… How scary would that be for someone who does not believe! But, how wonderful that there is still time to die to sin and follow the Savior!

C. Judgement Comes for Everyone-We, they, everyone should fear God’s judgement, because it is for ALL believers, unbelievers, dead or alive. (v.5)

D. The Gospel Saves Lives- Peter explains that the gospel was preached to former believers to bring them back to life in Christ. We can either live in “the flesh” for self and sin or we can “live in the Spirit the way God does.” (v.6)

E. The End is Near, so Focus!- Verses 7-9 should be bolded and highlighted in our houses, offices, cars, hearts, souls and minds! Here goes the answer to the question, “What should my focus be, in these end times?

Peter says, The end is near so do something that is appropriate for the time. Be self-controlled, think straight, be soberly-minded devoted to prayer. But above all else…LOVE ONE ANOTHER! LOVE people despite their sins, their supposed sins, their appearance of sin, your suspicion of their sin. This is how my brain and heart read God’s Word today. Simply put, DO NOT JUDGE! Be hospitable, charitable, and loving to everyone, even if they are a republican or a democrat! They are God’s beloved!

Hmmm…Itd be cool if we stoppped watching any news that bashed the other political party, just saying. We are not to judge each other. That is not of God. God’s Word should be our guide to all we do, no matter if we don’t fit in to the world and because we are not MEANT to fit in this world, because if we do, we will not be fit in our world to come, with the Lord forever.

I pray that you readers and I both continue to grow in Christ, spreading love and God’s Word and praying with an urgency for others. Jesus is coming back and with our own gifts God has given us, we are meant to tell others that.

Dear Father,

Thank You for shining Your light on Your Word for us today. Lately the world has seemed to grow darker and a bit scary. Thank You for Your light that guides our minds, hearts and feet every day. Please comfort the families affected by the shooting at the Trump rally and guide others who know them to love them like Jesus does. Give us boldness to spread the gospel and to be constantly convicted of Your will for us. You are so great in every way, Lord and we are so thankful for You!

Sorry this was so long, friends. My heart is heavy for those affected by our world’s sin and violence. We ALL need love and the gospel. Let’s live it and share it generously, and love others deeply, as Jesus did and does:)

Tina