The End of All Things
Peter, in 1st PETER 4: 7‑11, challenged his readers to be genuine, and to live each day as in the shadow of eternity. Peter encouraged the Christians to be ready for whatever life might bring. The Lord could come or call for them at any time, or terrible persecution might fall on them.
He said, “ Be ye therefore sober.” Sober means in one's right mind, or in control of one's self. Christians are to be in full possession of their highest mental faculties. A story is told of a mental hospital that test it's patients by turning on a faucet and letting a sink overflow. Then giving the patient a mop and bucket. If the patients first turns off the water he is starting to recover. We as Christians need to realize where our problems arise, from your adversary the devil, not from other Christians.
Another part of being sober is to see things in their proper perspective. There is a story of a young girl who writes here parents from college.
Dear Mom and Dad,
Sorry I haven't written lately but after the demonstrations and fire I haven't been able to see very well. But the Doctor here in the hospital said not to worry my sight will return soon.
But something good has happen, here in the hospital I have meet an orderly and have fallen in love. I have converted to a different religion and will soon move to a new country. You will soon have your wish to become grandparents.
Your Loving Daughter
PS. there was no fire, I'm not in the hospital, not about to be marriage, not expecting, but I did flunk math and English and did want you to view this in it's proper perspective
Peter next said “Watch unto pray.” Peter was one that slept while he should have been praying and later denied Christ. If you wish to be disappointed, look to people for perfection, you will get your wish. Peter realized that people needed to be watching and pray or they would fail. Earnestly give yourself to prayer if you are to have the spiritual resources to live triumphantly.
In verse 8 he says, “Above all things have fervent charity.” Christian love is to be a persistent, unbreakable spirit of goodwill. A definition of love that I like is “Unconditional Positive Regard”. Christian love will overlook the faults of others. It is surly better to pardon too much than to condemn too much.
In verse 9 he says, “Use hospitality without grudging.” God judges our works by our hearts not by our deeds. Make sure your heart has the right spirit when you give hospitality. Peter used hospitality to voice their witness to travelers. Mission work was made possible to early missionaries by the hospitality of Christians.
Because the end of all things is at hand, whether he comes or calls, be sober, watch and pray, have fervent love, and use hospitality.