Awareness of the Presence

1 Peter 5:6-11, NIV – Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.  Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.  To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

                As Peter finishes his first letter to Christians under persecution, he reminds them of a few important truths about their time of suffering:

• God is with them in their suffering and is ready to help them bear the time of trouble
• In a time a suffering, they are vulnerable to temptation to making choices that forsake their faith.
• They are not alone in their suffering.
• God will deliver them through this time of trouble stronger and firmer in their faith.

It strikes me that Peter’s words are not only particularly relevant for first-century Christians, but they also speak to the twenty-first century Christians living through a pandemic, sharp divisions, and a culture that is becoming more and more ambivalent about the church.

                As you look at the reminders above, what connects with your experience of faith right now.  Do you need the reassurance that God is with you?  Are you struggling with making tough choices?  Isolation a problem?  My encouragement today is to spend some time talking to God about the struggles you’ve been trying to weather alone.  Be sure to include some time for listening quietly for a sense that God is present with you.    

                That is the truth.  God is with you.  God will sustain you.  God can help you make tough choices.  You are not alone. God. Is. With. You. 

Prayer:  God, in the midst of our struggle, you are still God.  Quiet our spirit that we may be aware of your strengthening and comforting presence.  Amen.

Prayer Focus:  Pray for people who are homebound right now.

Song:  Lenny LeBlanc – There is None Like You (acoustic)