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1 Peter 4:7-11
Peter tells those of the dispersion that they must be ready for the return of the Lord as the end of all things is drawing near. “Therefore,” as Peter states in verse 7 (NKJV), they are to, “be serious and watchful in your prayers.” And most importantly is to have “fervent love” for each other. Peter then refers to the Old Testament book of Proverbs and quotes chapter 10, verse 12 which states, “love will cover a multitude of sins.” In verses 9-11 Peter gives examples of having fervent love for one another. Be hospitable – but Peter adds the gift that makes it sincere – do it without grumbling (verse 9). In verse 10 Peter gives instructions for the gifts that God has blessed us with – to use them to minister to one another; to be, “good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” In verse 11 Peter covers the two basic categories of serving; speaking/teaching and ministering/doing. The point is that whatever gift God has blessed one with, that gift should be used as is directed by God to bring Him glory that is evident through salvation in Christ Jesus.
This is a command to have fervent love for one another – in Christ Jesus.
This is a command to use the gifts that God has blessed us with to show fervent love for one another. In doing so, we bring glory to God through our salvation in Christ Jesus.
How many times have we done something because we knew that it was the right thing to do, but yet we didn’t really have our focus and our sincere obedience to God in our efforts. We want to be respectful of our salvation in Christ Jesus and follow what He teaches us through His Word, but yet we don’t really take the time to share our God-given gifts with others because…someone else will right? Or will they? God puts us in particular situations with particular people because the gift that He has given us is the perfect gift to share with that person at that particular time. We are the hands, feet, eyes, ears, and mouths of Jesus in the daily walk of life that God has put us in; He put us all here for a reason; have trust in Jesus to help you through and take the time to share your God-given gift with others. Pray about it and ask God to show you how this works…and He will.
Dear LORD,
You have called us all to salvation in Christ Jesus for a purpose to act on the gifts that You give us. That we would share the gospel with all creatures as Jesus told His disciples in the Great Commission. Please give us the courage and strength to stand for Christ Jesus and do the things that through our lives and salvation in Christ Jesus will bring You glory. In Jesus name I pray, amen.