1 Peter 5

1So I appeal to the elders among you. I am an elder with you, a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and one who will also share in the glory that is about to be revealed. 2Tend God’s flock among you as shepherds do. Take care of it freely, the way God would have it, not because you are forced to; not to make money for yourselves, but gladly and readily. 3Do not rule harshly over the people given into your charge; set an example for the flock instead. 4Then when the Chief Shepherd is revealed, you will be given a crown of glory that will never wither. 5In the same way, you who are younger, submit to the elders. And all of you, tie humility on like a garment in your dealings with one another, because “God stands against the arrogant, but he gives grace to the humble.”

6Humble yourselves, then, under God’s powerful hand, so that he may raise you up when the time is right. 7Do this by throwing every worry you have onto him, because you matter to him. 8Keep a clear head. Stay awake. The devil, your opponent, roams about like a lion that roars, hunting for someone to swallow up. 9Stand up to him and hold firm in your faith. You know that your brothers and sisters all over the world are enduring these same sufferings. 10And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore you, make you firm and strong, and set you on a sure foundation. 11Power belongs to him forever and ever. Amen.

12I have written you this short letter through Silvanus, whom I count a faithful brother. I write to encourage you and to testify that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, and so does my son Mark. 14Greet each other with a loving kiss. May all of you who belong to Christ have peace.