Marked by Hope (1 Peter 3:18)
We face an uncertain time worldwide. In times like these that we believers in Jesus are to stand out, distinct amongst the crowd. We are to be those characterised by hope because Jesus is our LORD.
In his epistle to believers who are suffering for their faith Peter writes at one point;
“But in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defence to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:18)
Despite the hardships and the fear-inducing atmosphere they were facing, these believers are exhorted to be prepared to answer anyone who asks them about the hope that is in them. This implies that the hope Peter is anticipating they will have will be surprising, will be rare – otherwise no one would ask them for the reason they have hope!
To do: Discuss these questions amongst your family now or get online and discuss it with your friends, or Community Group or Trio.
- How can we have hope when all around us people are feeling hopeless?
- How can we resist fear and worry & be filled with hope?
- What is our hope?
Our hope rests in the sure heart knowledge that we have believed in Jesus, and therefore, He is our LORD & SAVIOUR. Our hope is that we are His, beloved by Him, the all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful Prince of Peace. Our hope is that His care for us extends to both this life and life after death!
In these days filled with much fear and uncertainty all around us, we may be those who are marked by a noticeable hope in Jesus Christ. Pray and ask God to help you to fix your eyes on Jesus, your Prince of Peace. Ask Him to take up residence in your heart, in your thinking, ask Him to guard your heart and your mind (Philippians 4:7).
To Pray:
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Please pray for our president and all the leadership in our country seeking to deal with this pandemic. Pray for wisdom from heaven for these leaders.
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Please also pray for every person in the health services (Dr’s, Nurses, Pathology, Radiology…) for their protection and for strength for the times ahead.
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Please pray for those who’s businesses are under threat at this time, for wisdom, grace and help.
Two words that matter 