"The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaint. As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 4:7-11)
Even when Peter wrote those words so many years ago, the truth was that “the end of all things is near.” Physical life is coming to an end. The Christians to which Peter wrote may have found that thought comforting since their life was beset by corrupt and unjust governing authorities who were set on destroying Christians altogether.
Many today have felt the effects of corruption in the American government, whether at a local or federal level. Today, God gives the same instructions to Christians that were given through Peter’s pen so long ago:
Pray with clear minds. Prayers are shaped by the things that matter most to an individual. Christians must maintain a godly, soul-centered outlook on life, and pray for the further progress of the gospel.
Love each other. In a world filled with hatred and division, Christians need each other to behave as a support group, where the spiritual condition of each person is of the highest importance.
Be hospitable without complaint. When a fellow Christian is in need and you have the means to help them, help them. Leave behind no unpleasant, self-centered aftertaste from the interaction.
Consider yourself a steward of God’s grace. Everything people have in this life truly belongs to God. He has placed earthly riches in human hands for only a moment. Those riches bring joy to our lives, but God has a higher purpose in mind as well: the salvation of souls. Help fellow Christians remain faithful and help the lost to God.
In all things, glorify God. God deserves the glory for every good and godly thing. Through the Scriptures, He has led us in the right way and we glorify Him by sharing His gospel with others.
The end of all things is near. Please consider the way you treat your fellow Christians and the way you behave toward those outside the church. Do good toward others for their souls’ benefit, and glorify God as you do.
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