All Things NewSample

BALLPARK GUIDE A-Z

Embedded somewhere in the fan program at most stadiums is a guide to assist those attending the event. The purpose of these A-Z guides is to inform those in attendance of all of the resources available to them as they watch their favorite team do battle on the court, rink or playing field. All eventualities are considered including injury, weather emergencies, illness etc. They are told where to go and how to find help in each of many possible scenarios.

These guides offer a blueprint or template for how to live while at the venue. Almost all eventualities are anticipated and addressed.

How often do we as followers of Jesus long for a template for day-to-day living that outlines recommended responses and ways to move forward in all possible situations?

Such a blueprint does exist and is found in 1 Peter 5:1-11. It’s really quite simple - yet profound.

This blueprint identifies some fundamentals that are essential as the Gospel shapes us daily.

First there is something each of us can choose to wear each and every day that will position us well for any and all life situations. “Clothe yourselves in humility”. Allowing the Gospel to shape us as we daily follow Jesus’ example of humility ultimately shapes how we relate and respond to everything and everyone. Talk about transforming!

Then comes the instruction to be on the “Alert for an enemy that is prowling and seeking to devour.” That teaching ought to be headlines for every follower of Jesus.

When we are alert we will be less vulnerable to the sometimes subtle, but more often overt tactics of an enemy that is quite clever and very determined.

The blueprint also states that as we follow Jesus humbly and alertly we do so in an environment that includes suffering. Suffering is often something that we want to avoid if at all possible. The blueprint calls for suffering to be embraced as “after you have suffered a little while, He will restore, support, and strengthen you” (nlt).

Reading: 1 Peter 5:1-11

Reflection

· In what ways do I consciously choose to clothe myself in humility?

· What does my “early warning” detection system look like as I face an enemy on the prowl?

· What place does suffering occupy in my life? What kinds of suffering do I embrace and what types of suffering do I run from?