There is the *believer's time* (verses 1-2) -- this is where Peter urges us to no longer live for the will of men but the will of God. Our time on this earth is limited; therefore, we must make the most of it. We know that we will suffer persecution for taking a stand for Christ, just as He suffered when He was on this earth. But, that should not deter us. . . our reward will be heavenly!
Then there is the *unbeliever's time* (verses 3-5) -- Peter warns us that there will come a day when the unbeliever's time is up. Today is the day of salvation. There is NO time to waste! There should be a sense of urgency for us to share Christ with those whose time is short.
And then there is the *end of time* (verse 7) -- This will be when all time as we know it on this earth comes to an end, and we will see the new heaven and new earth. We should be praying, so that we are constantly connected to God. We should be loving one another (even the unbelievers) because LOVE can cover a multitude of sins. And we should be bringing God glory by using our gifts to build up one another.
Just a snippet, but worth sharing. Our world needs Him now more than ever before. The church needs to realize our time is shorter and shorter... are we asleep in the Light? Let's be FERVENT in our love for Him and for one another!!
As always with my original scripture images, you are free to use this graphic by right clicking and copying or saving.
It's interesting to think about what these words would have meant to the people who first read them in the first century. I wonder if they, too, looked around and thought that they were living in very dark times and longed to "shine like stars in the universe" as Paul wrote to the Philippians.
ReplyDeleteI hope your study went well.
Lorrie, I am sure they did think it was the very darkest of times... there is a song by Twila Paris that I love called "No Confidence" where she talks about putting no confidence in the flesh, but trusting in the Lord our God -- and that if we do, we will appear as lights in a darkened world (like Paul said to the Philippians.) Or, as it says in Daniel 12:3 "Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever." We should "be the bling" for the world. LOL. Love that thought!!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post and I enjoyed "listening" in on your discussion with Lorrie. I like this verse also, Psalm 20:7
ReplyDelete"Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God."
Thank you for your words about putting our trust in God during the these times.
Thank you, Christi, for checking in on me. I am much better and thank you so much for your prayers. I have been sick for so long but today I was able to have our pastor and his wife over for lunch. I praise the Lord that we were able to have them in since this is Pastor Appreciation month.