Give in, Resist, Hope.

In 5:5-7, Peter encourages his readers to submit to each other, to be clothed in humility, and to humble themselves under the “mighty hand of God” – casting all worries and cares upon Him. Remember, this is whilst under duress! In essence, Peter says GIVE IN to God and His ways – no matter the circumstances.

As we travel through the chapter, there is an almost violent shift in 5:8-9. Peter moves us from thinking of others, grace and humility, to requesting we remain alert, steadfast and RESIST!! Why is that? Peter says that you’re going to be in a fight for your soul – against YOUR adversary – the Devil himself. Whilst our salvation is secured in Christ, the Devil is scheming to bring us down – however he can, whenever he can. He will often use trials and tribulations to do this.

We see another shift in 5:10-11. This time, Peter elevates our thinking to the heavenly hope beyond. This is not a ‘finger’s-crossed’ hope. Peter says we are “called to His eternal glory” and He will “perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle” us. Further to this, 5:10 has a phrase that almost goes unnoticed, the simple words, “by Christ Jesus”. Yet, there is nothing simple or unimportant when initiated “by Christ Jesus.”

None of this is possible without Christ. It’s all “by Christ Jesus” and what He achieved on the Cross. We are able to truly submit and love others – because Christ willingly submitted to His Father. We are able to stand up against the Devil – because Christ did, and won!!! We are able to look and live for the glory of heaven – because Christ secured our salvation and our inheritance at the Cross. Without Him, we have nothing! With Him, we have everything!!

In Christ, we can truly Stand in the Grace of God (1 Peter 5:12).