July 16
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1 PETER 5
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13 She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. 14 Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ. – 1 Peter 5:6-14
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1 PETER 5 HUMBLE YOURSELVES AND CAST YOUR CARES ON GOD
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
Remember to always be meek and obedient to Christ
When you do, he will exalt you eventually in your life
Do not be afraid or worry about things you have no control over
Hand it to God and he will take care of it; do not be a worrier.
Grow your faith and be steadfast under trials and adversities
Stand firm and hold on fast to God so you will have victory
Stay humble and close to the Lord for this is your shield against the devil
Obey the Lord’s precepts and you will triumph over your weaknesses and evil.
Do not be surprised when you experience many trials for God is with you
He will never allow you to face these challenges without equipping you
Build up the communion of saints so you will be strong and mature
The body of Christ is his bride and he wants them to stay holy and pure.
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REFLECTION
• How is the act of dependence on God one of the best shields against the enemy’s tactics?
• Do you think worrying is an act of mistrust against God? Why or why not?
Category Archives: Poem devotionals
1 PETER 5 CLOTHE YOURSELVES WITH HUMILITY
July 15
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1 PETER 5
So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. 5 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” – 1 Peter 5:1-5
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1 PETER 5 CLOTHE YOURSELVES WITH HUMILITY
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
As children of God, we are commanded to follow Christ’s example
Though he was God, he didn’t claim it for himself when he became human
He sacrificed his own life so that we can go against sin and all the world system
The world wants us to boast of all the things we can do or accomplish
But the kingdom of God is opposite to all of the world’s dictates
Therefore, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
All you chosen by God who belong to him, be obedient to follow him
He wants all his children to be like Jesus, humble and subservient
Wear humility at all times so that you will do what is right
Do not forget the sacrifice on the cross that we received from Christ
Submit to all authority over you as you would submit to the Lord
Rebuke one another in gentleness and love so you can triumph over the world.
To all the elders and those given authority by God, exhort and rebuke your flock
You were given responsibility to teach and lead the people of God
Make sure you exercise your authority with humility and genuine love
Because you will be accountable to God for how you lead his flock
Live holy lives so that you will be an example for others to follow
This way, you are ensuring that they’re in the right path and don’t fall out.
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REFLECTION
• Why is humility a very important trait that we ought always to wear as Christians?
1 PETER 4 BE READY TO FACE TRIALS WHEN IT COMES
July 14
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1 PETER 4
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 9 Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. – 1 Peter 4:12-19
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1 PETER 4 BE READY TO FACE TRIALS WHEN IT COMES
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
Have you been used to being without trials? Do you love comforts in life?
When we love a good and easy life, we are not actually living for Christ
We become slaves of the systems of this world when we fear adversities
As a servant of Christ, we are asked to embrace suffering and not avoid it.
When you meet various kinds of trials, do not lose faith or get disheartened
These challenges are tests for your faith to grow and be strengthened
Be ready to face trials when it comes especially if it is for Christ
Trials that come from prejudices about your faith test your endurance.
To suffer because of your sinfulness is a consequence of that sin
But to undergo oppression and partiality because of your faith is true suffering
Let us rejoice when we face adversities and different kinds of challenges
It will grow our faith and make us strong to be witnesses for the Lord Jesus.
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REFLECTION
• Why do you think many people avoid suffering and love very comfortable life?
• Do you think comfort seeking can become an idol? Why or why not?
• Why do you think God allows suffering in our lives?
1 PETER 4 LOVE COVERS A MULTITUDE OF SINS
July 13
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1 PETER 4
7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
– 1 Peter 4:7-11
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1 PETER 4 LOVE COVERS A MULTITUDE OF SINS
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
We have witnessed signs of the end of days, let us be fervent in our prayers
Let the peace of Christ envelope us so we will have self-control and be sober
If we walk in love, we will exude kindness, patience and compassion
We will easily forgive others and not be giving way to temptations
As we embrace the path to love, we will begin to be a light to others
Because love covers a multitude of sins, it stops all fights and quarrels.
When we do anything for love, it leads us to a place of joy and peace
It shuts the door to Satan when he attempts to lure or devour us
The devil enslaves all those who love to argue and to fight
He traps people by making them fear many different things
But if we love, he can never have a chance to entice us
Love shuts the door to fear and all of the devil’s tactics.
Let us all therefore choose the path that leads to righteousness
Love is the most powerful weapon against all unrighteousness
When we love, we defeat all the ploys of the enemy
When we cave in to fear, we are defeated in the battlefield
Perfect love removes all fears and keeps us close to the Lord
Those who live in fear do not know God and is living for this world.
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REFLECTION
• How can love cover a multitude of sins? How is God glorified when we love?
1 PETER 4 WHEN WE SUFFER IN THE FLESH
July 12
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1 PETER 4
Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. 3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.
– 1 Peter 4:1-6
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1 PETER 4 WHEN WE SUFFER IN THE FLESH
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
When our forefathers sinned, we inherited our inclination to sin
It became our nature to follow the cravings of our flesh
But because of God’s steadfast love, he sent us Jesus Christ
He suffered in the flesh so we can be cleansed from our sins.
When Christ suffered and died on the cross, he crushed Satan
We can therefore have victory over evil because of that
When we suffer in the flesh, we triumph over sin
The Spirit of the Lord leads us to overcome our cravings.
When we do not give in to the pleasures that we so easily have
We are actually starving our flesh and it will eventually die
When the flesh dies, it is easier to follow the Spirit’s lead
Do not be afraid to suffer for the sake of our beloved Lord.
Because of the new life we received when Jesus died
We are no longer slaves to our passions and desires
We are given the Spirit to help us overcome temptations
Let us thank the Lord our God for his mercy and redemption.
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REFLECTION
• Why shouldn’t we be afraid of suffering for Christ according to these verses?
1 PETER 3 THE GREATEST OF ALL SUFFERING
July 11
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1 PETER 3
18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, 20 because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. 21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him. – 1 Peter 3:18-22
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1 PETER 3 THE GREATEST OF ALL SUFFERING
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
Are you going through much pain and adversities?
Do you feel like giving up from these difficulties?
When you think that what you are going through is unbearable
Remember others who probably experienced pain that’s insufferable.
Meditate on how Jesus went through the intolerable abuse in Calvary
It is the greatest of all suffering as it appeased God’s wrath and fury
The steadfast love of God made him save Noah from evil around him
The ark became his refuge and the waters annihilated the man’s sins.
Just as God cleansed the earth from sin in Noah’s time
Baptism also purifies us from our past tendencies to sin
All those who are saved are brought safely to the water
Jesus’s suffering made us reconcile with the Father.
Do not feel disheartened or desperate when you suffer
It is an opportunity for you to keep your eyes on Jesus Christ
He is the greatest of all sufferers as he took the blame for our sins
He gave up his life so we can have a new start and live free.
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REFLECTION
• What was Peter’s recommendation when we suffer in these verses?
1 PETER 3 BE ZEALOUS FOR WHAT IS GOOD!
July 10
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1 PETER 3
13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.
– 1 Peter 3:13-17
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1 PETER 3 BE ZEALOUS FOR WHAT IS GOOD!
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
As you become one with the Spirit of the Lord when he chose you
You were given the ability and gifts to have your minds renewed
Continue to seek heavenly things and not be lured by the world
Make the Lord your God first in all you do and seek always his word.
Always make time for sharing your spiritual gifts to the body of Christ
They were given to you so you can build up the communion of saints
When someone tries to distort the gospel, be ready to defend the truth
Be zealous for what is good: do not fear whatever comes from the world.
When you honor the Lord and keep a pure and righteous life
You are the salt of the earth and shining the Lord’s light
Keep your eyes on Jesus so you will never be derailed in your walk
Meditate on his word day and night and never give in to the bad.
Take God’s word and his laws very seriously; commit to following them
You will find joy even amidst suffering when you are faithful to obey them
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind
Then love your brothers and sisters as you would your own self.
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REFLECTION
• In verse 13, we are told that when we do good, we have no reason to be afraid of anyone. What were some of the reasons why Christians can be fearful?
1 PETER 3 HOW TO HAVE THE LORD’S EYES ON YOU
July 9
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1 PETER 3
8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” – 1 Peter 3:8-12
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A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
Do you love the Lord and desire to have his eyes upon you?
Therefore, do not conform to this world but have your minds renewed
Be gracious and humble and do not let envy or malice enter your hearts
Love your brothers and sisters in Christ and never give in to evil desires
Pursue peace like you would a very prized possession
Do not take it for granted for it will bring much calm and resolutions.
Love the Lord with all your heart, your mind and your soul
Make time to be with the Lord by hungering for his word
Do not ever desire to have all that the world offers
It is corrupt you and make you do all things that are evil
Keep faithful to him alone as he is steadfast in his love
If you allow sin to enslave you, he won’t pay attention to you.
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REFLECTION
• Why must a Christian pay much attention in avoiding evil as these verses tell us?
• Why is it important for us to stay in the course of righteousness according to these verses?
• What were the instructions here so that the Lord’s eyes will be on you?
1 PETER 3 WISE ADVICE FOR MEN AND WOMEN
July 8
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1 PETER 3
Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, 2 when they see your respectful and pure conduct. 3 Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— 4 but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. 5 For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, 6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening. 7 Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered. – 1 Peter 3:1-7
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1 PETER 3 WISE ADVICE FOR MEN AND WOMEN
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
This is a wise advice to all women who serve the Lord Jesus Christ
When you committed to serve the Lord, your life has been changed
You ought to clothe yourselves with the new nature given to you
Your old lives are now a thing of the past and you are now renewed
Do not be shallow and think only of external adornment to make yourself pretty
Let your inner beauty shine through; it is precious to God and this is real beauty
Wives, be gentle and submit to your own husbands as you would unto the Lord
Speak less for you can persuade him even if he is unbelieving without a word.
To all men who are servants of the Lord and have committed their lives to Jesus
Treat your wives with much care and love as you would a very precious treasure
Do not enslave them with your control and demands for power and authority
Instead serve them as you would your own selves for this shows grace
Honor them as you would your own bodies so that God will hear your prayers
Be understanding to them and do not disrespect them by ignoring their opinions
They are precious to the Lord as you also are the apple of God’s eyes
Protect them as you would your own lives because they’re made also in God’s image.
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REFLECTION
• Why do you think men and women were given specific instructions here?
1 PETER 2 A GRACIOUS THING IN GOD’S SIGHT
July 7
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1 PETER 2
18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
– 1 Peter 2:18-25
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1 PETER 2 A GRACIOUS THING IN GOD’S SIGHT
A poem inspired by these verses by ILMA
When Jesus Christ suffered all the abuses and rejection of mankind
He gave us an example of endurance and obedience that was one of a kind
Because of his Son’s great love for humans, he appeased God’s wrath
It was grace and mercy in bounty that saved all of the unworthy
Let us all remember how Jesus endured all the pain before his death
Will we be able to die for someone else’s place who isn’t deserving?
When you suffer for the sake of love, you are doing a gracious thing
What grace is it if you give your other cheek instead of retaliating!
When you do the right thing and be misunderstood for it
It is an occasion to reap a harvest of reward from Him
Continue to emulate Jesus and you will do good in God’s sight
Be gracious to others as he gave you mercy and a new life.
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REFLECTION
• What did verse 23 meant when it said “When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly”? Can we do this?