We have come to the end of Peter’s first epistle, and we should observe that the apostle concludes his correspondence by striking the same note he struck at the start.  He wrote to Christians who were suffering, and he wanted to assure them that in light of eternity their trials would last for just a little while (1Pet. 1:6, 5:10).  In chapter one, he wrote of their inheritance which had been reserved for them in heaven and would never fade away (1:5).  He then wrote, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials” (1 Peter 1:6).

In chapter 5, he encouraged them (and us!) that Christians all over the world were experiencing the same kinds of suffering (5:9), and that our suffering was for a little while when compared with God’s eternal glory to which we were called (5:10).  God promises to perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle us after our brief time of suffering.  Peter said it this way, “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).

Remember, your suffering is for a short time compared to the eternity you will spend in heaven.  Also, be reminded that when you suffer, you walk in the footsteps of Jesus, but will one day share in His glory!

For this slight momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison (2 Corinthians 4:17).