“….in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.”
1 PETER 4:11
Christ’s love compels us….
2 CORINTHIANS 5:14
The passage being preached this coming Sunday highlights that we no longer live for ourselves, but for him who loves us and gave himself for us. 2 CORINTHIANS 5:14
What does “no longer living for ourselves” look like according to Peter?
We live fully awake, soberly, praying with a heavenly-minded perspective.
We open our homes and our hearts to exhibit hospitality in all the different forms and expressions that are available to us.
We love each other deeply.
We are conscious that we have gifts from God that are meant to bless others, and we give ourselves for the sake of others.
Here is how Paul spoke about this matter in Romans 12.
We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.
If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith.
If your gift is serving, then serve.
If your gift is teaching, then teach.
If your gift is to encourage, then give encouragement.
If your gift is giving, then give generously.
If your gift is to lead, do it diligently.
If your gift is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. ROMANS 12:6-13
May the Lord continuously help us to be defined by these qualities. There is one big “if” to all of this. Peter tells us we must serve….
…in the strength God provides,
so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.
To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 PETER 4:11
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