And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:10, ESV
Why? This question, this word so often fills the minds of those in the midst of tragedy or struggle. It is a word that chips away at the foundations of faith and creates a wedge in hearts against God. In the words of Peter, the word of the faithful is meant not to be why, but when. When will this time end, and when will all be returned to its proper glory? In this word, we find hope because we know that His promise will be kept. For the people of the Word, followers of Christ, the why is clearly answered, “Because we have all fallen short.” Sin is tragic and brings tragedy, but the “when” brings us hope of His promise. Let our hearts be lifted as we look to when Christ will return.
Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.