1 Peter 1:2-9

2according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient and to be sprinkled with the blood of Jesus Christ. May grace and peace be multiplied to you.

3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead

4and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.

5You are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

6You rejoice in this, even though now for a short time, if necessary, you suffer grief in various trials

7so that the proven character of your faith  — more valuable than gold which, though perishable, is refined by fire  — may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

8Though you have not seen him, you love him; though not seeing him now, you believe in him, and you rejoice with inexpressible and glorious joy,

9because you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.