There’s a longing in our souls to know there’s more to this life than what we see. In the daily routine, there can be ups, downs, and even boredom. Relationships can bring encouragement, but quite often; discouragement. The first century Christians knew the taste of discouragement. They knew what it was like to look out over their own cities and know the tide of public opinion had turned against them. They knew what it felt like to be lied about, threatened and rejected by those who once welcomed them.

Peter, a man who knew the ups and downs of a spiritual journey, wrote letters of encouragement and challenge. He knew the crush of failure, the sting of rejection, but he also knew what it felt like to soar. To them, he said these words as a reminder:

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved for you in heaven.” – 1 Peter 1:3-4 NKJV

If the timbers of your soul need strengthening today, perhaps these anchors will help secure them:

• Abundant mercy (lavish and gracious)
• Living hope (alive and new every morning)
• Inheritance incorruptible (untouchable by the world)
• Reserved for you (He knows your name)

May these truths reassure your spirit today and give you courage for tomorrow.

Originally posted on The Compass 365 as “Encouragement”