Living Fountain

Living for God 2, 1st Peter 4:7-11

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Go back and just read 1st Peter 4:1-6 again and then continue onto read 1st Peter 4:7-11 below.

1st Peter 4:7-11 Amplified Topical Reference Bible

But the end and culmination of all things has come near; keep sound minded and self-restrained and alert for [the practice of prayer]. Above all these things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins [ forgives and disregards the offenses of others.] Practice hospitality to one another (those who are of the household of faith) [Be hospitable, be a lover of strangers with brotherly affection for unknown guests, the foreigners, the poor and all others who come your way who are of Christ’s body] and [in each instance] do it ungrudgingly (cordially without complaining but as representing Him). As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment , employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God’s many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor}. Whoever speaks, [ let him do it as one utters] oracles of God, whoever renders service [ let him do it] as with strength which God furnishes abundantly, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him be the glory and dominion forever and ever (through endless generations.) Amen (so be it).

In what ways can you keep a sound mind and be self-restrained and alert for the practice of prayer?

Define the following words from an English dictionary and then if curiosity strikes read and look up the words using a Greek/Hebrew Lexicon, I bet you can could even use google translate also.

  1. Intense Love
  2. Oracles of God
  3. Ungrudgingly

In what ways can you personally and corporately demonstrate hospitality to the following:

  1. Strangers
  2. Unknown Guests
  3. The foreigners
  4. The poor
  5. All others who come your way who believe as you do.

If you have been given any of the spiritual gifts or desire them, then take a piece of paper and make two columns; label them ALREADY HAVE THESE GIFTS and DESIRE THESE GIFTS.

In closing today’s session in 1st Peter, spend some quality time (not necessarily a quantity of time) in seeking the Lord’s presence in both a time of worship and prayer (taking time to LISTEN to HIM also)