We’re continuing our walk through the epistle of 1 Peter. I’ve been sharing about trials and difficulties. In my last post I talked about how our right choices can bring glory to God.
Today we’ll look at another frequently misunderstood Scripture.
And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
1 Peter 4:18 NIV
Some people look at this verse and use it as an excuse for their legalism. They have a list of rules that if any of them are broken, you’ll lose your salvation.
Jesus Christ went to the cross and gave His life to save us. I hardly think that it would then be God’s will for us to lose that salvation and end up in hell on a legal technicality.
Yes, this verse does say that the righteous are saved with difficult toil. This is the part that many use to teach that it’s harder to stay saved than it was to get saved. But it all comes down to the fact that they don’t understand what “saved” means. Scripturally, to be saved means to be delivered and protected. Understand this; because of Christ’s work on the cross, we’re not just saved from hell. We’re also saved form sickness, poverty, sin, depression, and all that would harm us.
The simple truth is that it’s difficult toil to bring salvation into my finances, my home, my mind, and my workplace. In saying this, Peter asks an interesting question.
It’s a very complicated question in the Greek language. But it all comes down to this: If we consider it painful toil to bring this salvation into our lives – how will non-worshippers and sinners become enlightened?
So, I will make the tough choices – in order for the world to see His light and glory. I base that upon the Scriptural context. This life is not all about me. The world needs me to be strong in the Lord so that they can see and understand this Good News.
As long as we have the attitude, “I’m not going to go to hell as long as I…” we’ll never be effective. The real question is “How many others around me will go to hell if I don’t live up to my salvation?”
So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
1 Peter 4:19 NIV
I need to make sure that if I suffer, it’s according to His will. That means it’s God’s choice, purpose, and determination for my life. If that’s the case then I am presenting my soul in well-doing before my Faithful Creator.
When I make the choice to follow the Lord’s plan, I put myself on the altar. Paul says the same thing in his writings.
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him…
Philippians 1:29 NIV
That word, granted, means given to you as a favor. God has done us a favor by letting us participate in His sufferings. It’s time to stop thinking all about myself and embrace the trials.
Question: How have others seen God’s glory through the difficulties you’ve gone experienced?
© 2025 Nick Zaccardi
The Spirit and the Word 