An Inheritance That Is Imperishable
Blessed be the God and Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living
hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an
inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for
you, who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation
ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, even if now for a
little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of
your faith – being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested
by fire – may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus
Christ is revealed. Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though
you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable
and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the
salvation of your souls.
Some things we accomplish in life
require intense commitment for a short time – and the result has lifelong
value. Think about people who earn a doctorate in their chosen field. Those
diligent people set aside other goals and dedicate their time, money, skills,
and hard work so they can achieve something that in 50 years will still be
attached to their name. Temporary intense effort results in a lifetime of
honor.
There can be an exchange of tough
times for good results. Peter was writing about the temporary tough times that
come into our lives even though we haven’t chosen them, and he indicated that
they can have lasting benefit. We rejoice during our trials, not for the trial
itself but for the coming glory and honor, which is permanent.
Tough times can bring pain and sadness
– and they don’t seem to promise any good news at all. Peter wanted us to look
ahead to the forever joy that is promised – a joy that will help us understand
the temporary tough times.
We can endure
this life’s trials because of the next life’s joys.
Our Daily
Bread –