Daily Devotions

1 Peter 1:3 reads, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
As we come to the end of Christ’s final week before going to the cross, so much has taken place. His ride into Jerusalem to offer Himself as the Jewish Messiah, the celebration of the Passover Meal with His disciples in the Upper Room, the washing of the disciples feet, giving them an example of servant-hood, the prayers in the Garden, the betrayal by Judas with a kiss, Jesus’ arrest, His death on the cross, and His resurrection from the grave! What a week!
Truly His cross involved great suffering (1 Peter 2:21, 24). Likewise, it involved great shame (Galatians 3:13). But this suffering and shame was not in vain, for as we see in both passages, it was on our behalf (John 15:13).
However, God’s dearest and best, indeed God’s “only begotten Son” (John 3:16), was slain, not so much for “friends,” but for enemies! A world of lost sinners put Him on the cross. But we are told in Romans 5:8, 10, “But God commendeth (demonstrated) his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.”
So, in the midst of painful circumstances, do you find it challenging to trust that your situation can be better or that good can come from it? It’s understandable. After all, even the disciples who walked with Jesus were completely devastated after the Crucifixion. They couldn’t see past their earthly circumstances to remember His promises.
But you don’t have to get caught up in an attitude of defeat. Understanding the truth of the resurrection, you can see past your situation to your extraordinary Redeemer. What does His triumph over the grave teach you?
First, when you think all is lost is when Your Savior reveals His awesome power.
Second, God always succeeds in carrying out His plans for you – nothing is too big to stop Him.
Third, nothing – not even death – can separate you from His love.
So when you find it difficult to endure, overcome your doubts by applying these three principles. These triumphant truths from the resurrection can give you true and lasting victory – today and every day.
Prayer: Jesus, You’ve overcome sin and death – truly You are worthy of my trust and praise! Amen.