Welcome to our new project, the Daily Bible Devotional. The goal is to help you understand and apply

scripture as you go through a New Testament Bible read five days a week, Monday through Friday,

as we move from Matthew straight through to Revelation. In under four minutes each morning, we will recap the chapter,

make some application, present thought questions for the day, and offer a prayer together.

I'm excited about exploring God's word with you, so let's get started.

Thanks for joining today. We continue in First Peter in chapter 4. Peter urges believers to adopt the same

mindset as Christ who suffered in the flesh. Those who endure suffering are finished with sin

and should live the remainder of their lives according to God's will, not driven by human desires.

He reminds them that they've already spent enough time in the past

indulging in sin, and although others may be taken aback by their new lifestyle, they must remain

steadfast in their obedience. Their challenge to love one another sincerely, practice hospitality

without complaint, and utilize their gifts to serve as diligent stewards of God's grace.

He encourages them not to be astonished by trials, but to rejoice in sharing Christ's sufferings.

They are blessed when insulted for His name and should continue to glorify God while doing good.

There's a great feel in this chapter of redirecting all that energy you had going

in the wrong direction that the world loved, and even though those around you may not understand it

at all, and it may cost you greatly, you redirect that towards service, hospitality, and love.

Christ calls us to live with a mindset that prioritizes obedience over comfort. We choose to turn from sin and follow God's

will, even when it leads to suffering. Although others may question our choices, we remain steadfast in

our purity. Genuine love for one another becomes our priority, covering many sins and fostering a strong

community. We are encouraged to be hospitable without complaint

and to use our unique gifts to serve others with joy and care.

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