Hope in Hard Times

Sermon Series: Stand Firm in God's Grace
Today's Message: Hope in Hard Times
Text: 1 Peter 1:1-2
Dr. Scott Hanberry

The foundation of any structure is most important. In fact, if a fault is found with the foundation, the whole building is in jeopardy. As we study 1st Peter this summer, we will consider the incredible sacrivice of Jesus Christ on the cross- the very foundation of our hope and faith. Peter encourages us to hope in the Lord no matter how truing the times may be. Standing firm in saying to all believers, be hopeful!

Two very deep convictions about who we are.

1.) __ ______ to ______!

     Just as God provided for and protected a people that He selected (Israel), He will be       faithful to us, His Church.

2.) I _____ _____ _____!

     We're not just passing through, but rather, we live as foreigners taht have settled         down.

While I am here:

     - I know _____ has a _____!
         "God the Father knew you...long ago"

     - I know the _____ _____ is at work.
         "and his Spirit has made you holy"

     - I know that it's all in _____ _____.

There is nothing happening in my life that is not filtered through the sovereign plan of my heavenly Father and under the direct control of the Holy Spirit.