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A new hope: 1 Peter 1.13–25 (Day 134)

Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.

Pray

Pray

Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.

Reflect

Daily reflection: 1 Peter 1.13–25

The great theme of this opening chapter of 1 Peter is the new beginning that God has brought to those who trust in Jesus. 'Because of his great mercy he gave us new life by raising Jesus Christ from death,' the author says (verse 3). The blessings of this new life are kept for us in heaven, 'where they cannot decay or spoil or fade away'. The contrast is with this life, where we might need to suffer 'many kinds of trials' (verse 6).

Promises like this sometimes lead critics to say that Christians just look forward to 'pie in the sky when we die', and aren't really interested in what happens in this life. History is against these critics  – Christians have been in the forefront of reform and social care. But even in this chapter, it's clear that the implications of this new life and a hope in heaven aren't that we care less, but that we care more. We're told to 'be holy in all that you do, just as God who called you is holy' (verse 15) and to 'love one another earnestly with all your heart' (verse 22). Because we call God 'Father', we're told to 'spend the rest of your lives here on earth in reverence for him' (verse 17).

Believing in Jesus isn't just a ticket to heaven. It's a life-enriching, joy-bringing gift that changes everything about how we see other people and how we live day by day.

Pray

Pray

God, thank you for newness of life in the Lord Jesus Christ, and for the great and glorious joy that brings to me. Help me to live day by day in the light of what you have done for me.


This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor

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