First Peter 5:10 says, “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” Yesterday, we noted that suffering is part of life, but Peter reminds us that a time is coming when God will restore & mend us. Today, let’s consider the next thing Peter promises—that God will confirm us.
This word and the two that follow are all very similar, and have to do with giving strength. Few things illuminate our human frailty and weakness like suffering. However, Peter offers a threefold promise of strength that God provides. This first word, “confirm,” means, “to cause someone to be or to become more able or capable, with the implication of a contrast with weakness.”[1] We face suffering and weakness, but the faithful are promised a God-given strength and ability that is greater than our weakness!
[1] Louw & Nida