Our Youth Pastor shared the first sermon on a new series titled “The Strong”. The message was based on 1 Peter 1:3-9. How do we navigate our lives in today's world? Peter is speaking to the persecuted, scattered church. (Saul was going house to house to arrest believers. Acts 8:3.)
Most Christians experience a point in life where they say “yes” to God. There is excitement and they often convince themselves that life will be easier. But that is not necessarily so as the early Christians and many since have learned. More often life goes through a shifting while God prepares the individual for His plans.
Peter focuses on positive hope. 1 Peter 1:3-9. He gives all praise to God. He briefly notes that there will be trials the purpose of which is to will show your faith is genuine. (Verse 6-7.) Our hope in eternity is greater than anything in this passing life.
Negativity can grow like bonfire; creating hurts. Choose positive over negative. We do not see the bigger picture. But often what Satan means for evil, God intends for good. Genesis 50:20.
Speak life and love into all situations. Rely on your future Hope.
I had several songs listed for Hope. This one fits.
Verses for Today:1 Peter 1:3-5 (NIV)
Praise to God for a Living Hope
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
Lord – I praise you for this life even if there be trouble. I give greater praise for the hope you have given me in a glorious future.
