Let's Prepare Our Minds

9/16/2026

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at His coming.

1 Peter 1:13, NIV

On Sunday, I shared about how I walked by the equestrian area at the Knox County Fair and heard the announcer say repeatedly, “So and So, you’re on deck, be thinking about it.” This phrase is a perfect example of what Peter meant in 1 Peter 1:13- preparing our minds for action (ESV) or with minds that are alert (NIV).

We’re to be ready for the return of Jesus with sober-mindedness as well. As the riders were to be prepared for their time in the equestrian ring, we are to be prepared for the One Who is Faithful and True. This One will be riding on a white horse, not in an equestrian ring, but in the air to come get us with grace abounding (Rev. 19:11-12).

Until that Day, we Christian exiles walk in three tensions:

The Time Tension (now and not yet) - 1 Peter 1:5-7
The Inner Tension (holiness or conformity?) - 1 Peter 1:14-16
The Source Tension (Fear or Futility?) - 1 Peter 1:17

Friends, we’re not on deck. The time is now for us to be walking with Jesus in His Present Risen-ness!

Have you been using your phone as a prompt and reminder of His Presence with you?

Pastor Andy

Please read 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 for Sunday.

Questions for reflection or discussion: