Three Things to Hold on to in the Middle of the Storm
October 6, 2017
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Life has its peaks and valleys, its hardships and troubles. If you are going through a difficult time, or are feeling like a stranger in the world, you will find great comfort in the book of 1 Peter in the New Testament of the Bible. It is a letter that the apostle Peter wrote to believers in the first century who were being persecuted for their faith. From this letter, we can garner three reliable, unfailing, and immensely encouraging things we can hold on to in the midst of a storm.
First, you have the Bible.
It’s your life jacket in the storm when the wind and waves beat against you. In 1 Peter 1:1-2, we are encouraged as believers that no matter what happens—no matter how we are mistreated or maligned—to “lay aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,” and to love God’s Word, the Bible, which we need to grow in our faith and character. In other words: don’t mistreat others who mistreat you; don’t quit your faith; and keep growing! Knowing and cherishing the Word of God teaches us these truths, especially in times of trouble.
Second, you have Jesus.
Come what may, Jesus Christ is the solid rock to which we cling. Verse four in Peter’s letter tell us that He is the living stone, chosen and precious. He is also the chief cornerstone upon which the entire Church is built, and He is immovable. Lastly, verses seven and eight explain that Jesus is a stumbling stone to those who reject Him. To further explain this Scripture, allow me to share a quick analogy…
If you were backpacking through the wilderness, what would you do if you encountered a massive rock—at least 12 feet high and 10 feet wide—in the middle of your path? It depends on your heart and your perspective. Some people might look upon that stone and rejoice that they have found something true and solid, sturdy and strong, that can provide shelter or protection from the elements. Other people might encounter that stone and be offended by it because it blocked or challenged their course. It’s the same with Jesus Christ. To believers, He is the living stone and the corner stone of our faith, and we rejoice in Him. Others are offended by Him, and reject and disobey His Word.
Third, you have a royal family.
Verses nine and 10 in Peter’s epistle explain that we are not alone in this life because “…you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.” What an honor to be called such things by Almighty God! And since He considers us chosen, royal, and holy, what is required of us? What is our purpose? Verse 9b reveals, “that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Our purpose is to declare God’s praise! We are to be holy, which means “set apart” from the culture, because we have obtained God’s wonderful mercy (verse 10b).
In the middle of life’s storms, I hope you hold dear to your heart that you have the Bible, Jesus, and a royal family. The biggest takeaway from this awesome passage in 1 Peter, is this: if you have Jesus, you have everything you need. He is our ever-present hope, and He is mighty to save! Please join us at Shepherd Church at one of our four campuses as we study God’s Word and grow closer to Jesus Christ together.
