Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7–11
Devotion
When someone asks, “What inspires you to help other people?” there are many possible answers. Many of us might say we’re motivated to help those in our families, neighborhoods, workplaces, or churches. But in today’s passage, Peter gives a more unexpected reason: we should be inspired to care for and love others because “the end of all things is near” (v.7). We shouldn’t view the end of the world and Jesus’ return as something to fear or as a reason to stand on a soapbox and shout at others; instead, it should inspire us to live for what truly lasts while we are on this earth. We know that only one thing carries into the next life: our service to God’s kingdom and His people.
When we live knowing that the end is coming, it puts life in perspective and reminds us how small our problems are in light of eternity. As the old saying goes, no one on their deathbed wishes they had spent more time in the office; Peter would say we’ll wish we had spent more time serving others. This mindset empowers us to love one another constantly, to be hospitable toward each other, and to use our God-given gifts and resources to serve others (vv.8–11). The end is near! Jesus is coming soon! Don’t be afraid; be alert and sober-minded in prayer and steadfast in love for others (vv.7–8).
A Personal Prayer
What in the world today causes you fear, uncertainty about the economy, conflict, or something else? How might “living for the end” help calm that fear? Take a few minutes today to pray that God would use those worries to draw you closer to Him and to lead you to serve and bless others. How might God use the gifts He has given you for His kingdom?
Pray for Our Neighbors: Whitsitt Elementary School
Located in the Woodbine neighborhood, Whitsitt Elementary serves a diverse student body, including many international students. The Church at Woodbine partners with the school to offer care and encouragement to students, families, and staff as they adjust to life in the U.S.
- Pray for Whitsitt families as they adjust to a new life in the U.S., asking God to provide them with peace, stability, and a supportive community.
- Ask God to bless and strengthen Whitsitt’s teachers and staff, giving them compassion, wisdom, and resources to serve their students well.
- Pray for the partnership between Whitsitt Elementary and The Church at Woodbine to bring encouragement and support to the school community.
Pray for the Nations: Global Workers | David & Laura
David and Laura have been serving with the International Mission Board for over 30 years, focusing on outreach in Edinburgh, Scotland. They equip local believers to share their faith, lead Serve 365 to facilitate visas for Christian workers in the UK, and oversee a Leadership Development Network across Europe.
- Pray that local Christians in Edinburgh will grow in boldness and commitment as they share their faith with those around them.
- Ask God to soften hearts in Edinburgh and Scotland, opening doors for many to hear and embrace the gospel message.