God’s Truth for Trying Times - 4/23/20

We need God’s truth in trying times. Read the Scripture passage, think about what it is saying, then pray; by yourself or with your household. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly (Col. 3:16).

READ: 1 Peter 2:18-25

“Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”

(1 Peter‬ ‭2:18-25‬)

CONSIDER: Jesus’s death at the hands of wicked man, decreed by God before the world began, is the reason why we can endure unjust treatment. When we contemplate what Jesus Christ has done for us, and the precious blood that was spilled in our place, it gives us ample reason why we should endure for Jesus and the Gospel. At the cross, Jesus kept entrusting Himself to the Father.

THINK: What does this declare about God? What are God’s people being called to do? What assurance is given? How does the Word of God transform our hearts and lives and relationships?

PRAY:‬‬ Pray these verses to God as a prayer. Pour out your heart in praise to God. Pray for others. Present needs to Him.