Therefore, with your minds ready for action, be serious and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:13 HCSB
The Rio Summer Olympics just finished a few days ago. The track and field athletes wore shorts to free up their legs for action. Imagine if a runner showed up for his race wearing a long robe. That would be unthinkable. He would not be able to compete very well in the race because he would be incumbered by his long robe.
This is the imagery that Peter is using with his readers. The phrase “minds ready for action” is sometimes translated to “gird up the loins of your minds.” When men would go into battle, they would tuck in any long, flowing garments in order to run and fight the battle. Peter’s readers were being persecuted and he wanted them to be prepared for battle and ready to take action. This was not a physical battle; rather it was a mental battle. They needed to focus their attention and hope on the grace that was theirs through Jesus Christ.
Challenge: As one focuses on the end goal and the hope he has for the future, it makes it easier to face trials, problems, and persecution. When difficulties come your way, set your mind on the hope you have in Jesus Christ and it will help you endure whatever you are going through. God is always at work, even through the challenges of life. Listen to the song, “God is on the Move” by 7eventh Time Down on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPB9ENSd1Xc