The first chapter is only 2 pages, but it gets me in the gut every time. (Hence, I never get beyond that first chapter and actually read the entire book. Hence, I am attempting to complete it yet again.)
Here is something I took away from rereading that first chapter:
I should not live because of my circumstances, but rather I should live in spite of my circumstances!
In the introduction of the book, Jeanne Hendricks says that Linda Dillow has the "quiet strength that exudes the fragrance of the 1 Peter example of womanhood."
I had no idea what that meant, so I also read 1 Peter chapter 1. There's a lot to think about in that simple, short letter!
Such as: I was chosen to obey Jesus Christ.
I was chosen by God, Himself.
Let the weight of that sink in for just a minute.
I was chosen to be sprinkled with His [pardoning] blood. (vv 1-2)
I was chosen to obtain an imperishable (and undefiled) inheritance. (vv 3-4)
Even when things are difficult, I can and am supposed to take heart in the fact that I was chosen, and that I and my inheritance are protected by the power of God. (Another pause for soaking in.)
Take joy at least in that, because eternal (gifts) last longer than this world and its trials. (v6)
"...obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls." (v 9) Wow.
I am to prepare my mind for action. (v 13)
I am to be obedient and moving forward from who I was in my ignorance and former lusts. (v 14)
I am to be holy because He, my Father, is holy. (vv15-16)
I can act in obedience to holiness because of the fear that I rightfully possess knowing 1.) that God is able to judge (impartially) and 2.) that I was bought and chosen and called to obedience at the cost of a precious price. (vv 17-18)
And finally: It is because of Him and that precious price that was paid that I believe and even am able to believe in God.
Just some thoughts from one hour in a busy mom's life spent soaking up Truth.
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