This is the second participial phrase that Peter uses to describe what his readers need to do in order to set their hope on God’s grace. In a literal sense, being sober-minded contrasts with being under the influence of alcohol. Peter, however, is not alluding to intoxication, because when the word is used in the context of thinking, the reference is to clear-mindedness in a bigger way than simply the absence of alcohol. The sober-mindedness to which Peter calls his readers requires the recipients of God’s grace to not let anything distract their attention from full concentration on the hope of their salvation.

It is further worthwhile noting that whereas the first participle (“preparing”) implies a one-time act, the second participle (“being sober-minded”) points to repeated and constant action.