1 Peter 1:5-9 “Who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.”
This powerful passage of scripture in today’s New Testament One Year Bible reading has four specific things to say about your faith that is worth noting.
1. The Power of Your Faith (v.5) – This is found in the word kept. You are kept by God’s power through your faith. The word “kept” means to be a watcher in advance; to mount guard as a sentinel (post spies at the gates). Your faith has power…power to shield and protect your life. When you choose to believe you are putting together a spiritual army of protection that guards your heart and your mind. That’s power!
2. The Trying of Your Faith (v.7) – We read in James chapter one in last week’s devotion that our faith gets tested to produce endurance in our lives which ultimately results in spiritual growth and maturity. A faith that is refined by fire is a faith that will serve you as a believer throughout your Christian journey.
3. The Worth of Your Faith (v.7) – Peter, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, reveals that our faith is worth more than gold. Your faith is worth investing in. Your faith will keep you through some tough times. Your faith is a valuable asset that you want to protect. And if in fact it’s worth more than gold, you want to get “more” of it. You are doing that by reading this devotional today. Whenever you take the time to read and meditate on scripture you are investing in your spiritual growth.
4. The Goal of Your Faith (v.9) – The finish line of this faith race is the salvation of your souls. Once that is fully realized (by our promotion to heaven) faith will have done its work. It is a wonderful vehicle to carry us from this life to the next.
Today let faith fill your thoughts, your words, and your surroundings. Meditate on it, speak it, and live it…and by all means, don’t let go of it!