1 Peter 4 - 10.3.25

Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7-11

“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.  Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.  Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.  Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.  If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”

Observation:

God is worthy of praise in all things. Peter is urging the church to be alert and sober to be able to pray “because the end of all things is near.”  Prayer is important. We need to be alert so we don’t miss an opportunity to pray. 

He stresses the importance of love.  We are to love deeply.  It covers a multitude of sins.  When all else fails, love will prevail. The world is filled with so much hate, but we can shine our light and offer hope when we love. 

We need to offer hospitality without grumbling and use our gifts to serve others.  When this was written, people opened their homes to travelers. I imagine this got tiresome.  I love how Pastor Katie had been reminding us to be hospitable to those who visit. 

God gives us gifts for a purpose, to serve others. This is the way we are faithful keepers of God’s grace.  This grace takes various forms.  Those who speak should speak God’s word.  God will provide His strength to those who serve.

Application:

I want to remember why I am serving, to bring honor to God who is worthy of all praise.  My serving should be wrapped in love.  I want to be alert for opportunities to pray. They are everywhere. These are hard times and people are struggling.  I can offer hope. 

I like how Peter says that when we use the gift that God has given us it shows His grace in “various forms.”  My gifts are different than others and that is ok.  

I also like how Peter points out that those who serve should do so in the strength God provides.  I want to be sure I do things in His strength not mine.

Prayer:

Father God,

Thank you for your faithfulness.  Your grace is sufficient.  Your love covers a multitude of sins.  Help me be mindful of this as I deal with others.  Help me offer hospitality and not grumble. I want to be welcoming wherever I am.  Thank you for the gifts you have given me.  When I use them to serve, I want to do so with the strength you provide.  Help me not rush into a task before praying.  Thank you for your strength and guidance in all things. Amen

- Cindy Howard