NT Fire Starters – Day 327: 1 Peter 4:1-19

READ: 1 Peter 4:1-19

THINK: Since becoming a Christian, have you ever gone through a really difficult time or faced incredible opposition and wondered, Why me? What went wrong? Or, I can’t believe this is happening. But of all the things that might be unexpected in life, painful rejection, opposition and suffering should come as no surprise for Christ’s followers. Jesus himself warned that they would have trouble in the world (John 16:33) and that they would be hated and persecuted (Matthew 5:11; 10:22). In fact, if you never experience these things, that might be the time to wonder whether you’re on track spiritually, because suffering for the cause of Christ is often evidence of genuine devotion to Him.

RESPOND: In what way are you to arm yourself with the same attitude as Christ (v. 1)? What does it mean that “he who has suffered in his body is done with sin” (v. 1), and how does that apply as we endure spiritual trials and difficulties (vv. 1-4)? (See 4:1 note.) How will most people in the world respond toward Christians and their lifestyle? (See 4:4 note.) What does it mean that “the end of all things is near” (v. 7), and how should we live in light of that (vv. 7-11)? (See 4:7 note.) What does it mean that “love covers a multitude of sins”? (See 4:8 note.) What is a “gift” as used in verse 10? (See 4: 10 note.) How should each of us view our God-given gifts, and how are we to use them (vv. 10-11)? Why should Jesus’ followers not be surprised by difficult and painful things they go through? (See 4:12 note.) What attitude should we have in facing such “trials” and why? (See 4:13 note.) In what way are you privileged if you endure insult or suffering for the cause of Christ? (See 4:14 and 4:16 notes.) Why and in what way must “judgment begin with the family of God”? (See 4:17 note.) How should this affect your attitude toward those who don’t follow Christ?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you follow His example when experiencing difficulty and suffering. Ask Him to help you graciously face and respond to misunderstanding and rejection. Thank Jesus for the privilege of suffering for His sake.

ACT: Examine yourself to see if you have any of the issues, character flaws or sinful shortcomings that you might tend to see in others. It’s likely you’ll discover some, so be prepared to take corrective action in your own life. If you’re holding any sort of grudge against anyone, give it up.