"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap." - Galatians 6:7 (NKJV)Adrian Rogers said this: "Many Christians will sow their wild oats all during the week, then on Sunday they'll pray for crop failure." They're asking God to help them avoid the consequences of their poor choices.When God says in His Word, "Don't do this," He's trying to help you. He's tr...

"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you." - 1 Peter 4:12 (NKJV)Remember those pop quizzes in school? You'd walk into class. The teacher would say, "Take out your pen. Take out a piece of paper. We are taking a pop quiz." And you'd say, "No, that's not fair!" But if you looked at your syllabus, it was right there...

"As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God... that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." - 1 Peter 4:10-11 (NKJV)With the end in mind, we must serve where God has gifted us. We can't do everything, but we must use what God has given us. Peter says G...

"And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without grumbling." - 1 Peter 4:8-9 (NKJV)With eternity in mind, Peter emphasizes something crucial: we need each other. He doesn't just say love one another - he calls for fervent love. The Greek word picture describes a horse at full stride, completely focused on finishi...

"But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers." - 1 Peter 4:7 (NKJV)I love the Summer Olympics, especially track and field, since I used to run track. What's the most exciting moment of any race? The last 20, 40, 50 yards toward the end. The athletes are at full stride, pushing themselves to the limit with everything they have, finishing with complete pur...