1 Peter: Being Formed Into the Image of ChristSample

A Disciplined Mind Ready for Prayer

Yesterday, we looked at the foundational truth that the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus are our living hope, which is essential to safely navigating the long road on our pilgrimage home.

Today, we will consider how "a disciplined mind ready for action" (see 1 Peter 1:13) leads us to persevere in prayer.

Throughout the first letter of Peter, we see the importance that a disciplined mind plays as we navigate a culture set against the ways of Jesus. As an example, 1 Peter 4:7 says, "The end of all things is near; therefore be serious and discipline yourselves for the sake of your prayers." With these words, Peter calls us as apprentices of Jesus to be alert, watchful, and self-controlled so that we might remain present in the moment, persevering in prayer.

On the intersection of prayer and discipline, Richard Foster once wrote, "Prayer catapults us onto the frontier of the spiritual life. Of all the spiritual disciplines prayer is the most central because it ushers us into perpetual communion with the Father. Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us."

Furthermore, 1 Peter 5:8 reads, "Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour." On the long road to our eternal home, the enemy of our souls does not rest in his attempts to distract us from doing the will of our Father in Heaven.

But as children of God, who have been given a "new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead" (see 1 Peter 1:3), we need not fear his attacks. Instead, our response should be to offer up prayers of protection that cover ourselves with the blood of Christ. Through God's grace, our sacrifice of discipline, and the power of the Holy Spirit, it is possible to remain watchful and alert, resisting the temptation of the evil one.

Today, I encourage you to carve out a few minutes of intentional silence before the Lord. As you do, consider offering Him the following prayer, "Lord Jesus, I surrender my mind to your will and your ways. As I seek you alone in solitude and silence, protect me from the lies of the enemy that I might clearly hear Your voice. Please grant me a discerning mind that is alert and watchful along this long road home that I might walk in obedience to You my King."