I want to build on last week’s lesson as it relates to God’s desire for us to “do good to all men, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10). I would be the first one to admit that over the years I have, at times, not taken my walk with Christ seriously. In a conversation the other day, someone spoke of the myriad of distractions around us, all bidding for our time. Time is like money, once you spend it, it’s gone.
But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 1st Peter 4:7
Few of us would argue about the need to be watchful, “walking circumspectly, not as fools but as wise” (Ephesians 5:15). But the paths in which we journey is intimately woven with each other. Listen to the very next verse in 1st Peter 4, “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” (cf. Proverbs 10:12) The word fervent stands out in the verse because it describes the love being talked about: a love that is more intently, more earnestly [Thayer’s]. 1st John 3:18 says, “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” Wow! Are you being challenged? I sure am! Let’s take it one step further.
As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1st Peter 4:10
Having a good attitude (v9), God yearns for us to be good stewards of the gifts He has given each one of us. Gifts like speaking, ministering, and as we will see during this year, the list goes on. Seeking to understand our gifts is part of taking our walk with God seriously. It also contributes to our ability to love one another fervently. God wants us to be good stewards of the things He has given us and with good reason. Peter says, “[T]hat in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen” (1st Peter 4:11). Lord, thank You for what You have blessed us with and help us not to squander the opportunity You have given us.
Dennis
