Scripture to Read: 1 Peter 2:9
As God's children, we are called to live holy, blameless, obedient lives to Him as our Heavenly Father. God shows us throughout His Word that we are to live holy and we've already seen it here in 1 Peter 1. Today, in 1 Peter 2:9, our Lord says, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession." God lovingly led Peter to use four phrases to describe us as His children (see Exodus 19:6). Each description is essential for us to realize our identity in Christ. First, as God's children, we are "a chosen race." Being chosen by God brings great joy and comfort; joy, because we know He chose us long before we ever chose Him (see 1 John 4:8-9, 19); and comfort, because we know we truly belong to Him. Second, we are "a royal priesthood," reminding us, as Christians, that we offer our lives as a sacrifice to God by living in obedience to Him no matter the cost. Third, we're described as "a holy nation," again knowing we live from the pure heart we have in Christ, and we pursue His kingdom in every area of our lives (Matthew 6:33). Fourth, we are "a people for His own possession." We belong to God and are sealed by His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). Understanding these four descriptions helps us see our identity in Christ. We learn who we are as God's children, called to serve Him, set apart as holy, and owned by Him. Rest in the identity of who God says you are.
Challenge & Application
1. God reminds us of how we are to live holy lives as His children. How are you living holy each day?
2. God reminds us of our true identity in Him; so, knowing what God taught you today, how differently do you see yourself now?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!