Our scripture this morning is 1 Peter 5:6-9.
So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.
Being a Christian in the first century was not easy. The teachings of Jesus upended many social “norms” of that time and made people think about their relationships with others and with our Creator. This didn’t always play well with those who believed they were in control.
He taught that in God’s eyes we are all the same – His beloved children, no more, no less. Our position, wealth, education or power are not how we are deemed successful by God. Peter tells us to “humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.” This seems contrary to all our human thought and it is why we fail when we choose our own way instead of the Lord’s.
Being a Christian in the twenty first century is not easy. Many voices clamor for attention and we must choose to how, when and where to respond. By giving our worries and cares to God, we can silence the confusion and discontent to focus our gifts on God’s plan and His way. God cares deeply about each and every one of us and we are called to share His love always.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You made a way for us to be saved through Your son, Jesus Christ. Help us to see the work You have for us and join our brothers and sisters on the path You have set for us. Amen.
