“Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.” (1 Peter 1:13)
The apostle Peter wrote this letter to gentile believers scattered throughout Asia Minor. It seemed they were being criticized, slandered and even ostracized by those non-believers around them due to their distinctive lifestyle. The believers were unfamiliar with the nature of God’s grace, so Peter wrote to explain it. We see in verse 13 that they should be prepared to stay alert and sober and set their hope on nothing other than the grace that has been given to them. They are to maintain a sustained effort, for the world about them will not relent. The more non-believers see their words and actions having a detrimental effect, the more diligently they will bring persecution.
It’s no different today. Personal attacks based on our faith and our godly lifestyle exist and are, as they have always been, based on fear and ignorance on the part of the attackers. As Christians, we must stand firm and allow God’s wonderful, yet undeserved favor to clothe us in peace even in the face of opposition. We must stand tall for Christ if by no other way then through the lifestyle we display.
Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
