The alarm clock rang promptly at 7 in the morning. Sophie woke up with a bad headache, but she thought nothing of it. She pushed away the covers and got out of bed. Suddenly, as a stroke devastated her brain, darkness descended and she collapsed to the floor. Sadly, situations like this one have been a reality for many people over the years.
Suffering often strikes us at the most unexpected hour and—for some people—it’s a constant companion. In times of pain and difficulty, we’re prone to doubt two things: That God is in control and that He will care for us. We wonder: How can I trust God? It seems too hard when I’m in the middle of a crisis.
The apostle Peter offers some counsel. First of all, he tells us to humble ourselves before God (1 Peter 5:6). God is God and we are not. He has a higher purpose, a clearer perspective, and better timing for all things. So it’s vital that we submit ourselves to His control and His care, giving all our worries to Him, for He cares about us (1 Peter 5:7).
Second, resist the devil (1 Peter 5:8-9). During trials, we’re especially vulnerable to the enemy of our souls. He’ll try to make us doubt God’s goodness, accuse our conscience, and cause us to believe that our suffering is unique. “Be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are” (1 Peter 5:9).
Finally, hold on to God’s promises (1 Peter 5:10-11). He intends for you to share in His eternal glory. So He “will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation” (1 Peter 5:10).
The God of all grace is also all-powerful. He will do it!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Romans 12:1-21
More:
Read Job 38:1-41 and reflect on God’s power.
Next:
How does Peter’s counsel encourage you in your suffering? Use 1 Peter 5:6-11 this week as a prayer guide for you and others who are suffering.
Gary Shultz on November 23, 2014 at 8:29 am
How often we are nailed with this sequence, we are under pain and suffering and we knuckle under. We get into the self pity party and pamper ourselves instead of trusting. One of the big steps in the christian walk, getting over ourselves. Trusting and obeying when it is not easy to do so. Thank you.
ghchong on November 23, 2014 at 6:06 pm
Who says the word of God doesn’t insult people. It does! Reference Prov 17:28: “Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.”
mleue on November 24, 2014 at 3:19 am
Thank you.
Winn Collier on November 29, 2014 at 4:24 pm
It say something that everything starts with humility, doesn’t it?