RPG Adults
LIVE AS GOD’S CHILDREN
LORD’S DAY, AUGUST 28
1 Peter 4:7-9
Psalm 95
“…I have said that
I would keep thy words.”
LIVE AS GOD’S CHILDREN
As the final days of this age rapidly run out, the picture of the world is one of uncontrolled sin and self-serving. The Christian is challenged because as a stranger to such sinfulness, he is to be “sober-minded,” that is selfcontrolled (1 Pet 4:7). While the world gathers to follow sinful pursuit, we must, in light of the Lord’s soon return, gather with our fellow Christians and encourage one another to live for God (Heb 10:25). Being sober will also cause us to have a strong and careful prayer life (1 Pet 4:7).
This Christian attitude of watchful prayer is critical in the last days as men reject the truth and follow Satan’s lies (1 Tim 4:1). Perilous times are coming upon the Church and the believers. The time will come when men will be so involved in sin that they will no longer be able to understand true love (2 Tim 3:3). In contrast to this, Christians must exhibit strong godly love one for another (1 Pet 4:8). Such love “shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:20). This is similarly taught in Proverbs 11:13. This Old Testament book of wisdom points out that hatred tends to emphasise the faults of our fellowmen, but love among brethren causes a forgiving spirit, rather than a critical one, to prevail. As those of this sinful world fight, criticise, and endeavour to overcome one another, the Christian must present a picture of loving-kindness and be always ready to forgive (Matt 18:22).
An outgrowth of true Christian love is hospitality. We remember that there was no room for Jesus in the homes of the world so the King of kings and Lord of lords was born in a manger. As the final days of this age come upon us there will be less and less room for God’s people on this earth. For this reason, hospitality, especially toward those travelling in the Lord’s service, becomes a mark of God’s people in a selfish world.
THOUGHT: Am I guilty of having a critical spirit?
PRAYER: Father, may I always be reminded of Thy Word in Psalm 133:1, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”