Read: 1 Peter 1:6-7
When I was confirmed, the Bishop slapped me gently to remind me that, no longer a young child, I was now “a soldier in the army of Christ.” I was too young to grasp all the implications of that commitment, but the Apostle Peter knew them all too well. Only a man who sees faith in Christ as far greater worth than anything, even gold, could embrace his own crucifixion with so much courage and humility that he asked to be hung upside down because he did not feel worthy of dying like Christ.
Courage like that is not of human origin. Only by faith could he lean into the Lord he knew and loved, so that his murder would become a glorious testimony of the Gospel.
Then there’s sinful me, who complains bitterly when events run amok. I know more trials await, not only for me but for all people because history is replete with wars, famines, plagues, and man’s cruelty to man. Wash, rinse, and repeat, until Jesus returns.
Yet we can take comfort in knowing that in all things, God is sovereign. He’s got this, and He’s got us. We may suffer and grieve, but with His strength, we will persevere. We can face the future with courage, knowing Jesus is walking alongside us and enveloping us in His love and strength.
As we look ahead, we can take comfort in the words of the 23rd Psalm,
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Take heart, fellow Christians, and live this day to the fullest in Jesus!
Lord Jesus, hold us close as we face assaults on our lives. Help us remember that Your strength is all we need to be conquerors in Your name, the Name above all names.
