I Peter 5:6-10 has always been one of my most comforting and favorite passages, especially as I grow older. There are times in our life when things kind of seem unbearable. During those times, we often feel like we’re the only ones going through this type of mental anguish and pity ourselves. Peter warns and encourages us by stating, ” Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you at the proper time” (I Peter 5:6). God’s help will come at just the right time. “Casting all your anxiety on Him, because he cares for you” (I Peter 5:7).
In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul tells us the same thing. Take your cares and worries to God. “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (I Peter 5:8). I Thessalonians 5:6,8 also warns us to be alert and sober.
Perhaps Peter remembered his own difficulty in keeping awake during Christ’s agony in Gethsemane. (see Matt.26:36-46) “But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world” (I Peter 5:9). How comforting to know that there are others who are going through the same trials as we have to endure, and they have not wavered under the storms of life.
God has always provided a way for us to handle any situation in life. “After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, and strengthen and establish you” (I Peter 5:10). God has always provided a way for us to handle things in this life through his grace and providence. We must be patient and endure the storms of life in order to make it to heaven.
Life is short and eternity is forever. We can prevail by the grace of God.
–Phil Barnes
