Faith & Love: A One Year Bible Reading Plan - Part 11Sample

As a teenager growing up in the ’90s, the band DC Talk’s song “Jesus Freak” became my anthem, proudly proclaiming my faith. This proclamation often left me feeling like an outsider.

To quote the song – “I don’t really care if they label me a Jesus Freak, there ain’t no disguising the truth.”

Peter wrote to people who knew exactly what it meant to be labeled a Jesus Freak. His letters were written to persecuted believers who felt like outsiders in their community.

Peter’s unwavering hope in the face of adversity lends a powerful resonance to his words in 1 Peter, offering a reassuring hand in the storm. I find comfort in his experiences, knowing that even in the most trying moments, hope can endure.

In Chapter 3, we encounter a profound message: embrace zealous obedience to God, even if it sets you apart. Love God with every fiber of your being and extend that love to your neighbor, even when facing persecution. (Verse 13-17)

I realize this is a very difficult challenge. Our everyday lives are complicated due to external realities. Life happens 😊, but the essence of our faith is that we have been transformed into living testimonies. We now demonstrate God’s grace and love to our families, friends, coworkers, and neighbors by the way we respond to these circumstances with an attitude that gives Him glory.

You are set apart to impact your world.

I pray that as you encounter people today, they will experience God’s love in the way your attitude displays hope in Him.