Encouragement and TeachingSample

Changed lives

Peter sees a clear turning point in the lives of his readers. Formerly, they lived in ignorance and followed their own passions; they were blinded by sin. But now, they should live in obedience to God. The Holy Spirit has renewed their minds, and that enables them to “discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2). This new understanding gives a new responsibility to live up to their position as children of God.

The essence of God’s will for our lives, is that we should no longer be conformed to this world, but to our Lord. He is absolutely holy and free from sin, so we should also refrain from sin.

Every Christian who has ever tried to live a holy life, has experienced failure. As long as we are living here on earth, our holiness will be imperfect. But that is no reason to give up on it. As “obedient children”, we love our heavenly Father so much that we long to obey Him. We long to be like Him. Our obedience is an expression of love, and of our desire to be completely free from any sin.

Are you striving for holiness?