In addressing the believers that had been scattered due to persecution in Jerusalem and the surrounding area, Peter does not merely reassure them by saying their hardships were over, but he encourages them with the thought that they are being kept by the power of God. How infinitely better for them to undergo hardships under the watchful protection of the loving God in whom they had placed their faith, than to have a false sense of security in pleasant circumstances.

The world is easily impressed by tricks, illusions, and sleight-of-hand that amaze and bewilder. In Scripture we see this with Simon the sorcerer, who astonished the Samaritans with his magic, causing them to say that he was, “the great power of God.” However, the true power of God is not found in tricks meant to deceive but in the truth of God’s great work of salvation through Christ.

This power has worked in each one of us who have believed (Rom. 1:16), and unlike natural forms of power, it does not weaken or diminish over time. It emanates from a God who does not change, and the same power that saved us also keeps us! Furthermore, as we yield to the work of the Holy Spirit in us, by God’s grace we can demonstrate the power of God by living for Him. Second Corinthians 4:7 tells us that “we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.”

May we recognize the greatness of God’s power in saving us, be encouraged that this same power keeps us, and step out in faith for Him to give Him glory in our walk!