by AMN
1 Peter 1:3-9
What is your message?
This should be the time of year that we should reflect and reevaluate our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We have just finished celebrating the event that our faith hinges on: the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord. I see and hear preachers push prosperity-heavy ministries and say that if one is not living a prosperous lifestyle, then you’re not worshiping the Creator the right way. I’m sorry, that’s a bunch of bologna folks.
In 1st Peter, scripture does not say that at all. Our joy should always be in Christ, who suffered the ultimate price and was resurrected and now lives. Our hope in eternal life is in him and only him. We receive heavenly riches that cannot fade, rust, crumble, or be destroyed.
Instead, scripture calls us to be soldiers of the good fight of Christ. Soldiers suffer many hardships in war. It requires the shedding of blood, sweat, tears, loss of friends, dwelling in trenches, and taking on heavy enemy fire. Peter, who had his fair share of battles with the enemy, encouraged believer to rejoice in the heavenly promise that is reserved for all of God’s servants. Although we suffer for this brief stint, we will always be more precious to God than any jewel, ruby, or mineral that this planet has to offer. We should be doing the same type of preaching Peter did.
So, what is your message? Is it aligned with God’s will or is it used to exploit scripture to push a self-driven agenda? One will always be known by their fruits, but what is it going to be, of the Spirit or of the flesh?
Heavenly Father, we thank you so much for your grace, mercy, and the unsearchable riches of Christ. We thank you for the furnace of affliction and searing the worldly dross that besets us from following you. He is risen and we believe, heavenly Father. Help us with our unbelief, Almighty God. We are but dust without your eternal grace. May our message be filled with love, kindness, patience, humility, and meekness: reflections of your only begotten son. May your name get the glory and praise you deserve. Amen.
Prison Lectionary 