June 8
/1 Peter 2:11-25 (Part 2) / Read
As we prepare for our Sunday gathering tomorrow, let us consider how it is that we are able to live the life that Peter described in this passage.
Peter urged fellow followers of Jesus to do the following:
Abstain from sinful desires (vv. 11)
Live good lives (vv. 12)
Submit yourselves to every human authority (vv. 13)
Show proper respect to everyone (vv. 17)
Love the family of believers (vv. 17)
Submit to [those in charge of you] (vv. 18)
Suffer for doing good (vv. 19-20)
Re-read that list several times and then consider the following:
What would the benefits be if a community of people put all of those things into practice? To what degree would a community like that be attractive to others?
To what degree is your life characterized by the actions above? To what degree do you want your life to be characterized by the actions above?
As we reflect on this passage, we find ourselves in a position that often occurs when we humble ourselves and invite God to teach us through the Bible: We see a life worth living; we want that life; we have had some success living into that life, but ultimately find that life elusive. The end result leaves us frustrated, demoralized, checked out or worse: condemned.
How often Believers fall to the false belief that the walking out their salvation is somehow different than entering into their salvation. And how do they enter? By the blood of Jesus. By believing they couldn’t work their way into it and by confessing that they were in desperate need of his help.
How glorious that revelation was! How freeing it was to admit it and then receive the flood of mercy and grace that came flowing from the Cross. The Bible declares: “By his wounds we are healed.” And it is only by his wounds we are able to walk out our healing.
Peter wrote that Believers have, in Jesus, a Shepherd and an Overseer of their souls. Someone to watch over them, guide them, protect them and fight for them - and this One is the One who walked perfectly in the way of righteousness and is the only One powerful enough to defeat sin and death.
Take some time to focus on Jesus, believing that he is near and waiting to draw close to you as you call on him. Then invite him to guide your reflections on the following:
Is there unconfessed sin in my life? Am I trying to deal with my sin in any way other than the Cross?
Where do I need Jesus to live the life he’s called me to?
What lifestyle choices do I need to make to keep my focus on Jesus and remain in contact with him? What rhythms do I need to establish to deepen my reliance on him? What practices do I need to stop because they promote the false belief that I can live well without him?