Day 157/260: Read 1 Peter 4

Suffering is a part of this life, but it does not have to be a part of the next. Peter writes, “But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.”

When this life is over, we will give an account for how we lived it. If we wasted it “in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries,” how will we be judged? We may be “the life of the party.” But when we decline those activities, we are called “no fun,” “goody two shoes,” or “party poopers.” But the people of this life will not judge us for eternity.

Peter says those who walk according to worldly values “will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.” They will be found wanting. Paul says of those who follow after sinful activities and lifestyles, “the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10).

Don’t let the world influence your day-to-day decisions in such a way that you are drawn away from the Lord. Do what is right, regardless of their attitude toward you. “Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.”

Memory (Copy into a notebook 5-10 times)

1 Peter 3:15. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.

Pray

Pray for wisdom in making decisions and choosing friends.