Triumph Over Trials - 1 and 2 PeterSample

Set Apart in Love

Read:1 Peter 1:13-16

SOAP: 1 Peter 1:14-16

Like obedient children, do not comply with the evil urges you used to follow in your ignorance, but, like the Holy One who called you, become holy yourselves in all of your conduct, for it is written, “You shall be holy, because I am holy.”

Into the Text

Knowing that Jesus is coming back should be motivation to intentionally live for Him now, with the days we’ve been given. Living this out practically means being mentally alert to this profound truth. It means not living in fear, but also not living carelessly, as though His return is inconsequential.

While society often wavers, debating what is right or wrong, what is moral or immoral, as followers of Christ we can stand firm. Christ Himself has set the standard of morality for us. It is not up to us to choose. So, Peter’s reminder to the early church is as relevant for us today as it was for them: do not give in to the evil desires that once tempted you. Though we will all continue to struggle with temptation as Christians, we can resist those urges because of Christ in us (Romans 6:14). Because of Christ, we are no longer slaves to our past sinful ways. Because of Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37-39).

Because of this truth, Peter can encourage us to be holy as God is holy. It’s an extremely high calling that God wants us to be “holy.” He wants us to increase in our devotion for Himself as well as our love for other people. He wants us to live our lives set apart, in obedience to Him, and distinct from the world’s sins of selfishness and pride. He wants us to love, obey, and honor Him because He loved us first and gave His Son for us.

We will soon realize that we are not able to love or obey Him as we should. However, it is important to remember we are never alone on this journey. The Holy Spirit will enable, guide, convict, and give us wisdom as we trust in God’s grace and rely on His power. Day by day, let’s ask God to fill us with His love so that His beautiful image will be reflected in our lives ever more brightly. Jesus wants us to know Him more and more and to live in complete dependence on His power working gracefully within us. And as we do, we look forward to the day when we will finally be holy and face-to-face with our Savior.

So, when past sins try to creep in or present temptations test you, remember to lean in closer to Jesus. It’s His strength, not ours, that brings the victory.

Prayer

Dear God, help us to live lives set apart for You, motivated by our deep and abiding love. As we joyfully anticipate Jesus’ return, empower us with Your strength and grace to live lives that reflect You to those around us. Amen.