The Path of PerseveranceSample

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. 1 Peter 5:6-10

Peter ends his first letter with a reminder that we are not alone! We are a part of a larger family, a community of faith, a body of believers that supersedes geographical boundaries. As we humble ourselves under God's gentle hand, our concerns and heartaches are lifted. We do not have to let the devil mess with us! Resist him, Peter proclaims! There is joy and strength in sharing our struggles. Community is a great reminder that we are not in the fight of faith as lonely individuals. Together, we get to watch as our faith is purified, refined like gold, and proven genuine.

1. How can I “humble myself under the hand of God” and cast my cares, hardship, and struggle onto Him?
2. How can I support others and show hospitality to other believers who are walking through hardship?
3. How can I be alert and watch out for the schemes of the enemy for both myself and others in the body of Christ?