Meditation
GIRD UP THE LOINS OF YOUR MIND
Text: 1 Peter 1
22 March 2020
THE BEGINNING OF FAITH
Faith in the Lord Jesus as Saviour was well received by many. The Apostle Peter noted the following positive responses:
- There was a living hope 1 Peter 1:3
- There was great rejoicing 1 Peter 1:6
- There was also love for the Lord 1 Peter 1:8
THE FIERY TRIALS THAT AFFECTED FAITH
Then came fiery trials that affected the faith of many.
- Many believers were scattered far and wide
- Some were deeply grieved 1 Peter 1:6
- Their faith was shaken
HOW MAY WE COPE WELL AMIDST FIERY TRIALS?
The Apostle Peter sought to do everything he could to encourage the flock in his care. This was one of the practical pieces of advice given.
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind,
Be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace
That is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:13
- It has to do with our mind
a) We may be affected adversely when our minds are not well girded
b) The word “mind”
i) It needs to be dressed up
ii) It needs to be girded up
c) The illustration is that of dressing up
i) One cannot afford to be overly casual leading to complacency
ii) The wise is always mentally prepared, ready for any trial of life
2. It has to do with our attitudes
a) We need to be sober
b) To have self-control
c) Instead of being overwhelmed by fear
- Hope must be fully exercised
a) Faith produces hope
b) This hope is in God’s grace
i) We need to continue to believe in God’s grace
ii) We need to rest completely on His grace from beginning to end
c) When this hope has the following features
i) It is alive
ii) It is full and complete
We will be able to cope well no matter the kind of trials we have to encounter. Let us cultivate a strong mind, attitude and hope in the grace of God!