INTRODUCTION:

The Christian life can be uneasy. We go through various kinds of trials and difficulties. However, remember these things are an inevitable part of the journey of faith. When faced with adversity, our faith can be shaken, leading us to make emotional decisions that can be detrimental to us. First Peter 5:1-11 reminds us of the importance of humility amidst suffering. This is how we can stand firm. Like the Christians addressed in 1 Peter, we too are encouraged to stand firm and seek refuge in the Lord. The key to navigating difficult times lies in adopting a humble attitude. Despite the challenges we face, we are reminded that we are not alone and that God is with us. But we must be humble before the Lord and with each other.

How do we practice humility when we are going through difficulty?

Three Choices

1. Leaders must be humble enough to serve (1-4).

Humility must begin with the leaders of our church. We are to set the example of what it means to be humble. This is based ultimately on the example of Jesus Christ our Lord, who humbly gave Himself up as a ransom to many (Mark 10:45).

2. Members must be humble enough to submit to leaders (5-7).

Leaders cannot do the work of shepherding God’s people if the members are not humble enough to submit themselves to the leaders. This involves acknowledging our needs and allowing leaders to accompany us toward focusing our attention on God. We can only experience God’s grace when we are humble toward God and others.

3. Everyone must be humble enough to stand together against a common enemy (8-11).

We have a common enemy, the devil. Our brothers and sisters in Christ are not our enemies; they are our family. We belong to each other. In times of difficulty, the enemy wants us to separate or divide. But our strength comes from our unity in Christ.

CONCLUSION:

1. “In times of difficulty, humility is the key.”

2. Our trials can easily discourage us. The temptation is to run away or try to solve our problems on our own. The better choice is to be humble. Only humility can strengthen us in times of difficulty.

3. The starting point in humility is honesty. Let us admit if we are experiencing difficulty. After the service, I will ask the pastors and interns to make themselves available to you. If you are going through any difficulty in your journey of faith, talk with them personally.

DISCUSSION:

1. Are you experiencing any difficulty lately in your Christian journey?

2. How do you usually respond when you are going through difficulty?

3. What have you learned today that can help you better respond to difficulty when it happens?

4. How will you apply this lesson this week?

5. With whom can you share this insight this week?