TAKE HEED HOW YOU WALK

     Apostle Peter has a message for Christians that came out of his own suffering
and brokenness. He writes from experience of witnessing Christ’s suffering (5:1).
Peter authored this book based on experience to churches to encourage them to
press on despite their suffering, trials, and persecution. His now message to
believers is that they might know that the new birth in Christ gives hope that will
help, despite what we go through in our daily walk. He presents the truth of how
life is to be lived in various situations.

     Peter’s writing is applicable to today in that believers need to learn to endure
as Peter did--with joy and victory rather than defeat. Our walk is visible and is
seen in this culture of those who oppose Christianity. The walk may not be easy;
however, it is possible. Believers, you have the truth and knowledge to do good;
so, we are called that we may inherit a blessing, even if we suffer for doing right.
We were born again to a living hope, so imitate the one who called you.

It is evident that fiery trials can produce growth or bitterness of life. Difficulties
along life’s paths may confuse/discourage believers from doing good, loving one
another, loving your enemy, or having compassion for another. Allow Christ to
lead and to guide. He knows your path. Furthermore, Christ is our perfect
example of one who suffered unjustly, and still obeyed God His Father. He
suffered on the cross for our sins that He might bring us to God through His death
(3:18). Christ endured the pain, humiliation, and shame, and is alive by the Spirit.

Prayer: Lord, You came that we might experience life abundantly. May the trials
of this life produce strength and eternal blessings. In Christ. Amen.
By Sis. Novella Carpenter   2