What is better than singing praise to God with 7,200 women? The only thing I can think of, is praising God with all of the redeemed in heaven. It was so good to be at the Gospel Coalition Women’s Conference last week. Women from all 50 states and 38 countries were in attendance.
Each of the speakers focused on a portion of 1 Peter. Over the course of three days they taught all the way through this epistle. Some of the terms that come up in this book are: sojourners, exiles, royal priesthood, God’s people. One of the threads running through the book is suffering and persecution. The other is a living hope!
Peter begins his letter with these encouraging words:
According to God’s great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1: 3-5
God keeps us in his sight! I am memorizing these verses.
Throughout each day Keith and Krysten Getty led us in worship. They introduced songs that are on their newly released CD, Facing a Task Unfinished. One of my favorite songs is, He Will Hold Me Fast. God is faithful and will keep His people in his care.
Jen Wilkin’s message touched a sweet spot. As Christians we are called to give the message of God’s love that offers new life. She compared our Christian role to that of midwife and lactation consultant. Our desire is to nurture growth in new believers.
Peter has instruction for women. And it includes the word submission. We may have trouble with this word, but the truth is that God gives us guidance for relationships. God provides order for healthy relationships. I was a little slow in learning this lesson. My husband and I have a good relationship, but it could have been better sooner. We disagree and argue from time to time but we communicate better when I show him respect.
For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening. 1 Peter 3: 5-6
At the conference I heard that last phrase and paused. Do not fear anything that is frightening. God invites us to trust him completely. I do not have to fear the outcome of the current election—but I will participate in the process as a citizen of this country.
The first epistle of Peter applies to the current time. I encourage you to read through 1 Peter. You can also listen to the messages given at the conference. The sessions are available on-line. Click here.
Linking with Let Us Grow, Word of God Speak, Faith Filled Friday, Thought Provoking Thursday, Whole Hearted Home and A Little R & R
The conference sounds amazing, Carol! I found myself in a deep thread of comments yesterday and I kept reinforcing The Gospel to one poster. Sadly she had a skewed perception of the gift of salvation. So when you wrote we as women need to nurture other believers? Well, perhaps He used me for this purpose! Thank you for linking up and sharing!
Carrie, So glad you took the opportunity to nurture faith! Have a good week!
I love 1 Peter! In the Amplified Bible verse 6 of chapter 3 says for us to “do right and let nothing terrify you, not giving in to hysterical fears or letting anxieties unnerve you.” These words are so needed in theses times!
Thanks for sharing the Amplified translation Elizabeth. The words really convey the emotion of fear. Peter had
first hand experience and is able to tell us that God is in control and has us in His care. Have a good week!
Carol,
Such a timely message you bring > “Do not fear anything that is frightening. ” In these days we are living when so much is unsure and changing, may we remember that we have nothing to fear as our God is sovereign over it all. Blessings!
Yes, we can have peace of mind as we trust God! Thanks for visiting, Joanne.
Carol- the conference sounds like it was very insightful and refreshing!! Thank you for sharing some of the highlights : ) #Faith-Filled Friday