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. I Peter, 5:10
One of the three disciples closet to Jesus, Peter wrote this letter to groups of scattered Christians at the outbreak of Nero’s persecution. It was a season of great persecution for all believers. Verses 7-11 are packed with strength and encouragement for the outcast and downtrodden, with verse 10 and 11 being the conclusion.
Peter witnessed the Crucifixion of Christ and He entered the empty tomb. The sights, sounds, smells and emotions……..God’s Glory in 3D living color were Peter’s recent experience, and now he is suffering the same persecution that began at the cross. Because of this, Peter has authority to speak, to testify and to call all believers to perseverance, hope and joy.
Just as Peter modeled, embracing Christ’s attitude toward suffering gives strength in our own persecution and energy to press forward by the power of the God of all Grace!
Love,
Gretchen