Peter was concerned for the new Christian converts in Asia Minor as they were facing persecution. Knowing they needed help, he wanted to strengthen them in the Lord. Many of them were accused as being evildoers, arrested and had their properties taken away from them. They had to flee for their lives and often lived in caves to escape capture. Persecution is something you and I would not be able to fully understand as we don’t face such severe persecution. Not in Singapore at least. But dear child, know that you are to stand up for the name of Christ as these people did for their faith centuries ago!

 

Peter also wanted to prepare them for further sufferings as the cruel Roman rulers would torment and persecute Christians further. History tells us that when a great big fire broke out in Rome, Nero put the blame on the Christians, and many of them had to die for their faith. Although they faced death, they continued to praise the Lord and prayed for their enemies even as they took their last breath! Such bravery and strength can only come from the Lord. We can learn much from these early Christians for we too need to be brave, and take a stand for the Lord.

 

Peter wrote God’s Word to encourage the Christians who were persecuted. We now have God’s Word to strengthen us while we go through trials and persecution. Write and memorize Isaiah 41:10 to strengthen yourself.

Isaiah 41:10 ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________

 

Thought: Fear not, for God will provide and protect.

 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, let me hide Your Word in my heart. Remind me of the promise in today’s verse that You will never leave or forsake me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.