Standing Together In Hope

1 Peter 4:1-11

4 Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. 2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. 3 For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4 They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. 5 But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.

7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Video for this Service can be viewed @ May 15, 2022

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 1 Peter 4:10

One Christmas as a teenager I had a gift under the tree that was significantly heavier than any others. I did my best to try to figure out what it was before I unwrapped it, but was not able to guess what it could be. When I finally opened it I discovered it was a tool box with a bunch of tools included! Being a person who totally enjoyed working on mechanical things, I was thrilled. My dad beamed with pride knowing I would put them to good use.

Do you know that God has specifically given YOU a set of tools with the hopes that you would put them to good use as well? You have at least one tool in your tool box of abilities that God has poured out his creative power into your life so it might be put into action in the service of others. It is something that will build others up, encourage them, and give of you a sense of defined purpose for your lives. This Sunday we are going spend some time unwrapping both the attitude and actions of these unique gifts God has so graciously given us!

Grateful to serve together with you,
John

Scripture Text for Sunday: 1 Peter 4:1-11

Spiritual Gift Assessment Tests Online:
https://spiritualgiftstest.com/
http://www.kodachrome.org/spiritgift/
https://giftstest.com/