SOAP 07/25/2016; 1 Peter 4:4

Today's reading: Isaiah 43, 44, 45; 1 Peter 4

S) "⁴ In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excesses of dissipation, and they malign you;"

1 Peter 4:4 (NASB)

O) After describing how Christians have come out of all sorts of evil practices, but that we do them no longer, Peter assures us that the people who still practice these things will not at all like the fact that we do not. This harkens back to the previous chapter, when we are told to be ready to defend the hope we have. This verse, on the surface, seems to be a warning to us. However, when we read it in context with vv.12-14, we should really see this verse as a promise.

A) The main thing, I think, is to not run with them into the same excess of dissipation! This verse also gives me another look at the fact that that I shouldn't be isolated from the world, but I shouldn't be the same as the world, either. That can feel like a real struggle, sometimes. It's hard to willingly put myself in position to associate with people who are different from me, knowing that those differences will inevitably create friction between them and me. However, I must remember that my life is not about finding comfort. My life is about spreading the gospel, advancing God's kingdom, and glorifying Christ. So, I'll continue to make friends who are unbelievers, with guarded boundaries, and when they are surprised about our differences and even get a little heated, those will be my opportunities to share the gospel, defend my hope, and rejoice if I am persecuted for being like Christ.

P) Father, You deserve all glory and honor, God. I want to live above reproach, for the sake of glorifying Your name to the highest. Please forgive me for every sin in my life, for everything that could be used as ammunition against the gospel and Christ Jesus. Let Your grace continue to be bigger than any sin I commit. Help me boldly make friends, create friendships, with unbelievers. But, help me to always maintain righteous boundaries, that Your work of grace in me would be evident to them. Let that grace shine as a beacon of hope, that I may tell them of Yiyr love, grace, mercy, peace, and healing. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.