Preparing for Difficult Times

Introduction:

We live in a time in which we have been encouraged to prepare for cataclysmic events.  On other occasions, we are told to prepare ourselves for bad reports from doctors. No matter the situation we have been told to prepare for some sort of negative experience and we would do well to follow that advice. We have also been warned on a spiritual level.  We know trying times will come but sadly we do not take the initiative to prepare our minds and faith to deal with those situations.  What can we do? How can we prepare ourselves for the trials and problems of life? We can start by recognizing that we are…

I.      4:1-6 - Living with the Flesh

A.     Christians are encouraged to prepare themselves for persecution.

1.     2:21-25 - Must start by adopting the mind of Christ as He dealt with persecution.

2.     Those who continually seek God, especially in a time of great trouble, do not have a problem with temptation.

a.     Desire is to live for Christ not for ourselves.

b.     Time was already passed to act like a Gentile…

1)     Sensuality – unbridled lusts

2)     Lusts – inward entertained

3)     Drunkenness – excess drinking

4)     Carousing – village merrymaking then rioting

5)     Drinking parties – drinking bouts

6)     Abominable idolatries – sensual drinking parties with idolatrous worship

B.     The gospel was preached so that we can live according to the spirit and not the flesh.

II.     4:7-11 - Our Attitude Towards Each Other

A.     Peter encourages his audience to prepare for a very uncertain and perhaps tumultuous time.

1.     They were to do this by…

a.     Being of sound judgment & sober spirit for prayer

b.     Fervent in love for each other

c.     Hospitable without complaint

B.     1 Cor. 12:12-31 - Whatever gift or ability one has, he is to use it to the glory of God.                   

1.     Specifically mentioned are…

a.     Speaks (teach, preach) – as if God Himself were talking

b.     Serves – not just speaking of deacons here

2.     Remember, the reason to do these things is to bring honor and glory to God.

Conclusion

A.     In order to make it through uncertain times we must learn to lean on our God and each other.

B.     Are you trusting in the Savior??