God promises a limit to evil and suffering, and he is the one who sets the boundaries. Right now. And forever.

Notes And Next Steps

1 Peter 5:6-11  + Part 8 of the series “Dear God..."

God’s discipline of a Christian is often mistaken for wrath and punishment.

The devil promises relief.

Be alert and of sober mind! … Resist him, standing firm in the faith. (1 Peter 5:9)

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6,7)

Think of Jesus’ hands. Luke 23:46; 24:39; Romans 8:34

God the Father delivers you through the saving hands of his Son.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. To him be the power forever and ever. (1 Peter 5:10,11)

Discussion Questions

1. Who, in your life story, comes to mind when you think about hands telling you a lot about a person?
2. In what ways are discipline and deliverance both the same for believers? In what ways are they different? Explore 1 Peter 5:6-11; Hebrews 12:1-11; Psalm 34.
3. “How do I cast all my anxieties on God?” your friend asks. What practical and biblical advice can you give? See 1 Peter 5:7. 
4. Trouble strikes your family again. It’s hard. It hurts. Different family members are responding in different ways. You are turning to prayer, but wonder whether you pray about it as God’s discipline or ask for his deliverance.