Living Hope Day 6

Living Hope Day 6 Reading:

1 Peter 2:4-12 

Ponder 

Who do you say you are? Think about how you’d answer that question. Maybe you’d say you were a daughter or son, a parent. Perhaps you’d characterize yourself as a follower of Christ or mention your profession. You might point out your strengths, but my guess is that most of us would point to at least a few of our failures or weaknesses—that time you disappointed your child, that outburst of anger you’re ashamed of, that series of sins that deeply damaged a relationship. 

Peter wanted to remind these early Christians (and us!) who we are in Christ. These early believers were facing persecution and suffering for their faith. Rather than focus on that mistreatment, Peter wanted these believers to remember who they were in Christ. They were chosen, royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. “The world may despise you,” Peter seemed to be saying, “but God deeply loves you.” 

These believers weren’t suffering for sin, but they were suffering just the same. In today’s world, we will face mistreatment and ridicule for our faith. In many places around the world, believers suffer under the weight of persecution. “Remember who you are,” Peter whispered into that pain. “Remember whose you are.” 

And if you’re prone to describe yourself by your worst mistakes and sins, even after you have sought forgiveness for them, let Peter’s words fall like rain on your parched and troubled soul. Remember who you are. Remember whose you are.

Chosen.

Cherished.

Royal.

Holy.

Set apart.

God’s own possession. 

You are deeply loved. And your relationship with Christ has deeply changed you. You are part of God’s chosen family. Live in the truth of that today. 

Journal

• How would I define myself today? Am I focused on my failures or the painful circumstances I’m facing? 

• Journal a prayer of response to God, thanking him that you are chosen, cherished and part of his family. 

• Do you feel like the enemy often throws your failure and sin back in your face, even after you’ve confessed and asked God for forgiveness? How will you choose to trust God’s Word rather than these lies?