40 Days in Christ: Knowing and Living Your Transformed Identity in ChristSample

Stones That Breath and Move

Envision a grand temple, not built with lifeless bricks or stones, but with living stones, each representing a believer drawn to Jesus. In this powerful illustration from 1 Peter 2:4-5, Jesus stands as the cornerstone of this spiritual construction, initially rejected by humanity but deemed chosen and precious by God. As you draw near to Him, you become a living stone in this divine edifice.

Consider this spiritual construction as an ongoing, dynamic project. Like a living stone, each believer plays a crucial role in constructing a spiritual house where God’s presence resides. The rejection faced by the living cornerstone, Jesus, mirrors the challenges believers may encounter in a world that may not always appreciate their faith. Yet, in the eyes of God, every individual is chosen and precious, contributing to the collective building of this spiritual dwelling.

Picture yourself actively engaged in this spiritual construction, forming part of a holy priesthood alongside fellow believers. Together, you offer spiritual sacrifices that God deems acceptable through the mediation of Jesus Christ. Your life becomes a living stone, vital to creating a sacred structure. Embrace the profound truth that, in this spiritual house, you are chosen, precious, and actively involved in a divine construction project guided by the cornerstone, Jesus Christ.

Reflection:

1 Peter 2:4-5 likens believers to living stones being built up as a spiritual house. Reflect on the concept of being part of God’s spiritual temple, chosen and precious. Consider how your life contributes to the construction of this sacred dwelling.

Application:

Contemplate your role as a living stone in God’s spiritual house. How can you actively contribute to the unity and strength of the spiritual temple? Take a moment to pray for the wisdom and willingness to be an integral part of God’s sacred dwelling.

Declaration:

“I declare that I am a living stone in God’s spiritual house, chosen and precious. Together with other believers, I contribute to the unity and strength of the temple where God’s presence dwells. I offer myself as a living sacrifice, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”

Prayer:

Gracious God, thank you for choosing me as a living stone in Your spiritual house. Help me actively contribute to the unity and strength of the temple where Your presence dwells. May my life be a living sacrifice acceptable to You through Jesus Christ. In His name, I pray. Amen.