Sunday, July 4, 2010

Courage and Assurance

"My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that what you are experiencing is truly part of God's grace for you. Stand firm in this grace." I Peter 5:12b (New Living Translation)

The Apostle Peter in writing to "God's chosen people who are living as foreigners in the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia."

He knew they were going through some hard times so near the end of his letter he states the purpose of his letter - encouragement and assurance. Interesting that part of "encourage" is the word "courage."

When we encourage someone we want to inspire courage to face their life circumstances.
And Peter wants to assure his readers that what they were experiencing "was truly part of God's grace for them."

In the middle of a situation where the obedient child of God finds himself or herself suffering, it is of great comfort to know that this one has not been forgotten by God and not out of the realm of His grace. His grace covers and enfolds the suffering believer. The child of God can look forward to restoration, support, strength, and a solid foundation in life.

What's the suffering believer to do in the middle of the fiery trial when the winds of adversity blow so hard that one can hardly see or imagine the next step to take?

Stand - stand firm in God's grace. Remember God's proven love for you demonstrated on the cross. Hold fast to Him. He will never never leave us or forsake us.

No comments: