Conclusion

First Peter 1:3–5 describes a treasure trove of God’s abundant grace and mercy to believers through our participation in Christ: not only a dramatic rebirth from spiritual death to life, but an inheritance we can enjoy eternally with him.

How do we respond to such grace? The most appropriate response is found in 1 Peter 1:3: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!” As simple as it seems, Peter is offering the most appropriate response to God’s grace—praise. Praise for God’s goodness, mercy, and great love. Praise for our new birth. Praise for our heavenly inheritance. And praise for God’s protection until that final day of salvation.

But is praise really enough of a response?

In reality, praise is exactly the response God wants from us. It’s the only appropriate way to respond. Our voices and, in fact, our whole lives, are meant to be an offering of praise to God (Romans 12:1).

Maybe the concept of praise doesn’t always feel very practical here on planet Earth, but, clearly, it means a lot in heaven. And if we will spend all eternity praising God, it seems only appropriate that we start now!

God asks for our praise, not because he’s desperate for affirmation (like we often are), but because he delights in us knowing him. We cannot repay God or offer any gift comparable back to him. But each day we can choose to live with profound gratitude and joy for all God has done for us, for our new life with him. And our joy and praise will put a smile on the face of our heavenly Father.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In his great mercy he has given us new birth.