When Hard Times Come - December 2 Readings: Ezekiel 31–32, 1 Peter 4–5, Psalm 136:1–7, Proverbs 29:17–18

Links to December 2 Readings: Ezekiel 31–32, 1 Peter 4–5, Psalm 136:1–7, Proverbs 29:17–18

Today's thought will be short and (hopefully) sweet.

Peter wrote to people who knew what it was to suffer for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I feel like I'm suffering when someone talks bad about me or I have to make some kind of sacrifice as a part of my ministry. But these people had suffered. Real suffering. Harsh. Pain. Even, at times, death.  And Peter desired to encourage and strengthen them.

In 1 Peter 5:10, he said,

Now the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will personally restore, establish, strengthen, and support you after you have suffered a little.

He reminded these people that the "little suffering" they were going through would result in "eternal glory" one day and everything they had been through would be worth it all. But Jesus isn't just our ticket to heaven, he is our daily hope, our Sustainer. He will "personally restore, establish, strengthen, and support you," day by day. When times are hard, he will be there to carry you, to pick you up and to strengthen you for the work he has set before you.

No matter what comes in this life, I've got unspeakable glory awaiting, and unlimited sustenance ang grace for my life every day.

Father, thank you for your Son who not only secured my future but sustains my presence.