Holiness: Living DistinctivelyParaugs

“Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation {distinguished}. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel." (Exodus 19:4-6)

We Are Peculiar: The word "peculiar" (seg-ool-law') means to be a valued possession. We belong to God. He has creative rights over us and Jesus has purchased us/redeemed us with His blood. Our Father has chosen us above all others and desires us to be distinct from the world, worshipping only Him. 

Being peculiar brings persecution. The believers of the Early Church were persecuted because of their distinctive lifestyle. They refused to pay homage to the Roman Emperor, worship Rome's idols, or participate in its pagan rituals. Being separate and different from the world caused God's people to be despised, imprisoned, tortured, and killed.

Question: The gods of today can be people, possessions, positions, and power. Have you placed anything above your love, worship, and commitment to God?

Challenge: Reprioritize your life and place God on the throne of your heart.