Strengthened in the Suffering: 1 Peter 5:10-11 NKJV
As believers, we are not immune to trials and sufferings in this life. In fact, Jesus Himself said that we will have tribulation in this world (John 16:33). But despite the difficulties we face, we can find comfort and strength in the promises of God. One such promise is found in 1 Peter 5:10-11, which says:
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. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (NKJV)
Let's dive deeper into these precious verses and find encouragement in the midst of our struggles.
The God of All Grace
The passage begins by addressing God as "the God of all grace." This title emphasizes God's character as a gracious and merciful God. In the midst of our suffering, we often feel like we're alone and that God is distant. But the Bible reminds us that God is always near, and His presence is accompanied by His grace. This grace is not just a feeling or an emotion but a tangible reality that sustains us in our darkest moments.
The Purpose of Suffering
The verse goes on to say that God "called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus." This calling is not just a general invitation to salvation but a specific calling to participate in Christ's sufferings. As believers, we are not exempt from suffering, but we are called to suffer with Christ. This suffering is not punitive but redemptive, as it conforms us to the image of Christ.
The Promise of Perfection
After we have suffered a while, God promises to "perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle" us. This promise is not just a fleeting comfort but a tangible reality that transforms us from the inside out. God is not just alleviating our symptoms but addressing the root causes of our struggles. He is perfecting our faith, establishing us in His Word, strengthening us in our weaknesses, and settling us in His peace.
The Glory of God
The passage concludes with a doxology, giving glory and dominion to God forever and ever. This Amen is not just a casual utterance but a confession of our trust in God's sovereignty. Even in the midst of suffering, we can declare that God is still on the throne, and His glory will ultimately prevail.
In conclusion, 1 Peter 5:10-11 reminds us that our suffering is not in vain. God is our rock, our refuge, and our strength in the midst of trials. He is the God of all grace, who calls us to His eternal glory, perfects us in our suffering, and settles us in His peace. May we find comfort in these promises and give glory to God forever and ever. Amen.
