The study for April will be more fun. We will get to complete four books making our reading the Bible - done chapters- look more impressive. Don't get upset, they are small books but it is nice to read the different trains of thought.
Let's now read 2 Peter, 2 and 3rd John and Jude for April. Remember to keep your pencil sharp and notebook near. I pray God opens you eyes to new things.
1 Peter chapter 5.
While this chapter is addressed to elders in the church, there is good information that we can apply to how we think and live. Because this or other Scripture is written to persons like elders, it does not mean we cannot learn and apply the ideas expressed there.
I think we can easily accept the instruction as good advice in that we should do things for the good of doing them, not for what we can get out it. We should do things with a servant's heart knowing that in what we do, we are also serving God. We can even apply the way elders are instructed to watch over their flock to how we manage others at our work. This can apply to how we work with volunteers in a variety of capacities. Perhaps we can apply it to how we work with others in scouts, dance clubs, cheerleaders or ever sports teams.
Peter also addresses how young men should accept the authority of older men. In today's world we don't see much of that or even expect much of that. I know when I was young, I called older men sir and Mister so and so. It was a good place to be. I respected those who were older than me. I appreciated any wisdom they shared.
Peter speaks to all of us with "God opposes the proud but favors the humble". Do you think most of us would agree? Don't we favor a kind, humble person over a bragging, brash, proud person? How do you want to be thought of? Just a little food for thought.
Be humble in what you do knowing God will get you a pat on the back here and there at the right time. We are instructed to give all our worries to God BECAUSE He cares about us. When I was thinking about that, I wondered why it is hard to give them up. If I was so good at fixing my troubles and worries, I wouldn't have troubles and worries. Haven't you noticed how good it feels to give God your troubles, it is such a burden lifted. Knowing that, I can't understand why we carry our burdens to the point of desperation until we give them up.
We are taught to be strong and wide awake, watching for the schemes of the devil. We should stand firm and strong in our faith, perhaps continually praying the armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18. Please understand, you are not the only one struggling. We all do and are in the battle of life together. Know too that no matter what happens, no matter what you have had to deal with, God will restore you and strengthen you.
Peter wrote this book to encourage us and that God's grace is all over your problems and struggles. He will never leave you or forsake you for He loves us all.
I hope you enjoyed and learned many things in 1 Peter, keep on keepin' on.
Now may peace be with all of you who are in Christ.