I Peter 4:7; 5:8 - "Tunnel"

Peter gives the same words in both chapter seven and eight of his first book. "Be alert and of sober mind." The more I thought about this, the more I wondered what message he was trying to get across. Paul had given the same direction for us to follow in Titus 2:6. The Greek word for sober minded is sophroneo which also means self-controlled or sensible. The word comes from sozo which means 'healthy or sound' and phren which means 'mind'. The desire of God's heart is for all to have a healthy mind. It is a must in order to live out a life of holiness where we will experience His grace and empowerment. I was reading an article that called it 'restrained living in an un-restrained world.' We need to not only set the example for others on how to live a holy life but we must proclaim holy living so they will have the same empowerment we receive in doing so. I like what Matthew Henry writes about sober minded: "The right ordering of the body is of great use to promote the good of the soul. When the appetites and inclinations of the body are restrained and governed by God's word and true reason, and the interests of the body are submitted to the interests and necessities of the soul, then it is not the soul's enemy, but its friend and helper." His Holy Spirit is our Helper. He enables us to do God's will as we live a life pleasing to the Lord. Sometimes we feel like we are missing something or not getting anywhere as we go through life. We must never give the enemy an open door but must instead stand firm in living a life of holiness. We must remember He is the One in charge. We must never manipulate circumstances but instead must allow His timing to happen. We are not to save people, we are to love with His love and He will save them. It is not sensible to get upset with ourselves when something bad happens. Instead we need to pray for His direction and follow what He tells us to do. 

Dear Jesus,
Thank You for the reminders of Your Word this morning! Thank You for loving me so greatly! Thank You for Your grace and empowerment! Father, my heart is heavy this morning for the family of the one who died so tragically yesterday. I am saddened he did not have hope in You. I am saddened for the two little ones who are left behind without a parent. Father, thank You for the way You were with Doc last night as he ministered to this family. Lord, may more of them find You through this tragedy. I pray people will not get to the end of their life without knowing You. Thank You Jesus for being My Light. Amen.