Godly Priorities

“The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable … without complaint.”—1 Peter 4:7–9 NASB

Eighteenth-century scholar Samuel Johnson once observed, “When a man knows he is to be hanged in a fortnight, it concentrates his mind wonderfully.” For similar reasons, deathbed confessions are given special credibility. These are moments when people tend to tell the truth.

Applying this principle to “the end of all things,” Peter focused on practical matters. He was concerned about the thoughts of his readers and warned them about the consequences of thinking about the wrong thing or being swayed by the things around them. He urged them to be under control, have calm minds, and not be dominated by rumors, gossip, or speculation.

These steps were important for effective prayer. They could not pray effectively if their minds were cluttered or distracted. He also expressed concern for their relationships, urging them to love each other “because love covers a multitude of sins.”

In this same spirit, believers were to be hospitable to everyone, even those with whom they disagreed. They were to have a servant attitude and to be “good stewards” of their resources (v. 10). They were to be humble and never proud. And they needed to remember that they represented God. They were to be His ambassadors and seek to bring Him glory.

Ask God to give you His perspective on your life. Seek to have His priorities. Serve Him faithfully. Seek to have no reason to look back with regret.

Reflection Question: What things are distracting you from God’s Kingdom-building work?