...CommentsAugust 1, 1999
Just in case you need additional food for the thought, let us again turn to the scriptures, 1-Peter 4:7-19 with our focus on verse 12.
"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try (test you, as though some strange thing happened unto you, but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings, that, when his glory shall revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. "
Peter's message spoke to Christian service and the difficulty we face doe to the times that we live in. "We should always be mindful of the coming of the Lord." Be sober and watchful; "Be ye therefore sober, (v.7). Let the frame and temper of your minds be grave, stayed, and solid; and observe strict temperance and sobriety in the use of all worldly environments. Do not suffer yourselves to be caught with your former sins and temptations, (v.3). And watch unto prayer. Take care that you be continually in a calm sober disposition, fit for prayer; and that you be frequently in prayers, lest this end come upon you unawares". In Matthew 26:41, Jesus spoke to his disciples that fell asleep as he prayed in the garden of Gethsemane these words. "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak".
We struggle at times because of our flesh, but thanks God for Jesus, who gave us a way to escape temptation with the aid of the Holy Spirit. Peter's conclusion to the whole matter was this, victory, can and will belong to the saints of God. "Wherefore, let them that suffer according to the will of God, commit the keeping of their souls to him in well-doing, as a faithful creator."
"But the God of all grace, who hath called us into his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after ye have suffered awhile, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you. To Him be glory and dominion forever and every, Amen."