Monthly Archives: September 2022

“a little while”

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1Peter‬ ‭5:6-11‬ ‭ESV‬‬

An eternal perspective puts struggle in proper perspective

Growing in our understanding of the greatness of God helps us trust HIM when the chips are down.

If our view of suffering is “Oh, woe is me!” We May have a small view of the greatness of God.

If our view of Him is small, the troubles of the world, May dominate us and cause us fear.

Grow in knowing God.

Grow in trust.

Put your anxiety on HIM!

In recovery from Covid, I’m reminded of a couple of wonderful things:

The going is still slow, but gradually improving. I put in a good half day of study, organizing, and mentoring this morning (even a light 25 minute tramp in the forest!). Then I realized I needed to rest.

Someone has said that rest is how God designed me to know that I am not him.

I love seeing God’s design.

In Peter’s text, I’m reminded of lots of things, way more that I’ll note here. Here’s just one.

…after you have suffered a little while,…

Doesn’t being content in the mercy and grace of God mean I don’t have to hurry?

My caring Father has more to teach me.

So be content to wait.

…the God of all grace… Peter reminds us

…will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
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So, trusting in God’s plan for my suffering means I don’t need to “get well soon”. (Though the sentiment is kind.)

Because I know HE CARES FOR ME.

And he cares for you too, whatever is the cause of your suffering. Whether it’s a broken marriage, a wayward child, or betrayal, HE IS WITH YOU AND HE CARES FOR YOU.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter‬ ‭5:6-7‬ ‭ESV‬‬)

Preparation for trouble begins with humility.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5:6-11‬ ‭ESV‬‬