1 Peter 1:5 - Shielded

1 Peter 1:5

“who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.”

The Greek word that is translated here as “shielded” means literally, “to hem in, protect – as in a garrison”. We are guarded – like living in a castle with a garrison of soldiers – by God’s power and vigilance. We may suffer wounds in battle and the pains of living in this world, but we are personally surrounded and protected by the Divine Power. No matter how bad it gets, God’s faithfulness will see us through to final deliverance from sin and death that will occur at the revelation of Christ.

All this protection and salvation come to us through faith in Jesus Christ. We cannot earn it. We cannot do anything to make it happen. God made relationship with him available; we can only receive it by faith. Receiving by faith means that you believe what God says. If God says you are saved – then you must believe He is right. If God says that His Spirit is transforming you into the image of Christ – then you must believe that is happening…even when it looks like it isn’t. “Faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Peter continues to focus on things that are coming. Why? Because for the readers of this letter – right now was pretty bad, and tomorrow looked even worse.

How are things in your “right now”? Are you in pain, scared, or feeling lost? God knows your struggles, and though you may not feel His presence, He is with you and working on your behalf. Do you believe that today?

“And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” – Hebrews 11:6

One final thought, a good portion of the Christian reward is in the future. Yes, we get relationship with God now, and the Holy Spirit changing us from the inside out. We also get joy, peace, faith, hope, and love right now. But freedom from sin, perfection, and eternity are still to come – or “to be revealed at the last time” as Peter said.

Thank God for the gifts that we enjoy now and never forget that the best is yet to come!