Living as God's Chosen People: A Devotional on 1 Peter 2:11-4:19
December 14
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:11-4:19 (NIV)
In 1 Peter 2:11-4:19, Peter addresses believers as "sojourners and exiles" in this world, emphasizing the tension between their identity as citizens of heaven and their current residence on earth. He urges them to live in a manner worthy of their calling, even amidst trials and suffering.
Peter begins by reminding believers of their new identity in Christ. They are chosen and set apart, called to live holy lives as representatives of God's kingdom. In a world that often opposes their faith, they are called to abstain from sinful desires and to live honorably among unbelievers. This mirrors Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, where He calls believers the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world" (Matthew 5:13-16).
An important verse in this passage is 1 Peter 4:10:
"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."
Here, Peter emphasizes the importance of using the gifts and abilities God has given us to serve others. Just as each part of the body has a unique function in serving the whole (Romans 12:4-8, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27), so too are believers called to use their gifts for the edification of the body of Christ.
This verse holds profound relevance for us today. In a world filled with self-centeredness and individualism, it's easy to overlook the call to serve others. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His example of servanthood (Mark 10:45) and to consider others as more important than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). Our gifts and talents are not meant for self-promotion or personal gain but for the building up of the body of Christ and the advancement of God's kingdom.
As we navigate our journey as sojourners and exiles in this world, let us remember the words of Peter. Let us strive to live holy lives, abstaining from the sinful desires of the flesh and shining the light of Christ in a dark world. Let us be diligent in using our gifts and talents to serve one another, demonstrating God's love and grace to those around us.
Prayer:
Thank you for choosing us and calling us to be your representatives in this world. Help us to live in a manner worthy of our calling, abstaining from sinful desires and shining the light of Christ wherever we go.
Grant us the humility and willingness to serve one another with the gifts and talents you have given us, being good stewards of your grace. May our lives bring glory to your name and further your kingdom here on earth.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
