I began a 9-week study of 1 Peter last week, which you can read about here.
This week's lesson (1 Peter 1:13 - 2:3) focuses on our behavior as we try to live holy lives during times of adversity and the strength we can find only through Jesus. The emphasis is on what God has done for us so that we may live with hope, grace, and security.
There are times when I feel defeated. Beaten down by the trials we've been facing lately. Overwhelmed by life in general.
If I take the time to examine why I feel so discouraged, I realize that it's because I've tried to take control of the situation again. I fall back into the sins of pride, hypocrisy, and trying to fill my needs with something other than spiritual bread. Rather than turning toward the Lord in prayer, I fool myself into thinking that I can do it alone. Even if I don't consciously choose to go it alone, I seem to do it by default. Why is that? I know I can't do any of this on my own. It's all through His grace and His strength.
I don't want to struggle alone, spin my wheels, and make a mess of things. I have to fill my mind and heart with the truth of His word in order to defeat the lies of this world. I have to stop trying to control outcomes and relying on my own resources. When I hungrily consume the word of God daily, there won't be room for any "junk food" from other influences. Thankfully, God gives me what I need for each day, sometimes just minute by minute. I want to crave His word above all so that I may become holy as He is holy.
Are you reading along in your own study? Leave a comment and let me know. I'd love to hear your thoughts and what you have gleaned from your study.
If you'd like to learn more, you can visit Sue Edwards' website here. You can also visit other bloggers in the Kregel Tour.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the 1 Peter study for the purpose of review. No other compensation was given for my honest opinions.
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