Sunday June 13, 2021 | Faithful in Hard Times
The Bible says Christians will suffer for following Jesus. Peter encouraged believers who faced persecution for their faith. Through suffering, God can make us more like His Son. Jesus gives us hope and true life so we can live joyfully for Him, even in hard times.
Jesus’ followers did not have an easy life after Jesus went back to heaven. Some people did not like that they shared the good news about Jesus. Those people were mean or unfair to Jesus’ followers. Many people who trusted in Jesus had to move away from their homes to be safe. Peter was one of Jesus’s disciples. Now he was a leader in the church. He wrote a letter to help Jesus’ followers in other cities. Peter wanted to tell these believers to keep following Jesus—even when it was hard. Peter said, “Praise God! He has given us new life. We have hope for the future because of Jesus. He died, but now He is alive!” Peter said that people in God’s family have blessings in heaven. These blessings cannot be taken away. We are joyful as we remember this promise, even though life is not always easy. When hard times happen, we can trust God. This honors Him. Peter also wrote, “Be holy like Jesus.” Peter reminded Jesus’ followers that before they knew and loved Jesus, they lived however they wanted. Jesus gave His life to save them so they could have a better life. Peter said, “This world is not your home forever. Do not live like people who like to do wrong things. Instead, do what is good. Serve God. Obey those God has put in charge. Show love and respect to everyone. Others will see the good things you do, and they will praise God.” Jesus showed us how to live. He was punished for our sins so that we can live to do what is right.
Christ Connection: The Bible says Christians will go through hard times for following Jesus. Peter wrote a letter to help Jesus’ followers live with hope and joy. Through hard times, God makes us more like Jesus.
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