words of encouragement

Peter is writing from Rome to the followers of Jesus who were in the general are of what we know today as Turkey.

These last few verses of chapter 5 are a kind of final instructions of Peter at the close of his letter.

These are not only pertinent words for those folks back then, but a good word for us today.

In these 5 verses are some of the verses I feel like God has given me to hold on to during 2016 – I've underlined them.

The lead verse, or the primary verse for 2016 seems to be verse 7.

Verse 8 feels a little prophetic, like there's gonna be some attacks this year, so I need to be on the lookout for them.

(it feels like we've been under attack since we moved here in 2010.)

Then there seems to be some reassurance in verse 10.

Verse 12 holds 4 words that pop up occasionally in my life & reading of the Bible ever since the end of December, 2009.

“No matter what happens” seems to be 4 words God has been using with me since then to prop my weak faith & fearful nature.

Anyway, these are not just words that apply to me, but words that apply to all of us.

Let them soak in, especially verse 7 – they are good to hold on to.

1 Peter 5

6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God,

and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.

7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.

  8 Stay alert! Watch out for attacks from the devil, your great enemy.

He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

9 Stand firm against him,

and be strong in your faith.

Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.

  10 In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus.

So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you,

and he will place you on a firm foundation.

11 All power to him forever! Amen.


12 I have written and sent this short letter to you with the help of Silas, whom I commend to you as a faithful brother.

My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that the grace of God is with you, no matter what happens.