Dave Gudgel - April 8, 2018
A Pick Up for Down Days - 1 Peter 1:6-9
Though there are many things in this world that bring us joy, whether we like it or not, life in this world also includes a lot of pain, suffering, grief, and tears. It’s been that way ever since sin came into the world, and it will be that way until God creates a new heaven and earth.
When Jesus said “in this world you will have tribulation,” He wasn’t kidding. And when James said “when you encounter trials,” he was putting everyone on the alert. Trials will come. Be ready. Suffering will come, and when it does, we can use all the heavenly help we can get.
In this Sunday’s message, we’ll be looking at a much-needed perspective that can help the next time you’re in the midst of pain.
From Series: "Between 2 Worlds"
This Week's Sermon: "Peter’s Closing Briefing"
brief·ing ˈbrēfiNG noun - a meeting for giving information or instructions.
Most of us love briefings because they are usually short and to the point. It's not a time for a lot of chit chat. Important information is shared, and then you're done. It's time to go get to work.
As parents we often give briefings to our kids before they're ready to head out the door. It's dangerous out there and we want them to be safe. We want them to make good choices. So we figure another short reminder can’t hurt. Which is why we say things like: “Be careful” or “Don't talk to strangers” or “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”
This Sunday we complete our study through the book of 1 Peter. But not without a final briefing from Peter that could make the difference in whether we will win or lose the war we are in. You know that we are in a war, right? Danger is all around us in this fallen world, and we need to be battle ready. Peter’s closing words will help us do that.
