1 Peter 2

Scripture  

2 Peter 2:9  But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 

Observation-What does it say?  

In chapter two, Peter “The Rock” is encouraging believers to push forward in growth.  In doing so, he points out our status as being chosen by God.  But, we weren’t chosen by God for our good.  We were chosen by God for his purposes, to make known the goodness and richness of His love.  Also, as a result of Him choosing us and setting us apart, we become holy, which is not something we can do on our own.

Understanding-What does it mean?  I am a big fan of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings series.  I love the books, the movies, the action figures, all of it.  For my 33rd birthday, I was lucky enough to have a hobbit themed day, compliments of my wife.  It sounded great at the beginning of the day, because hobbits love to eat and so do I.  But, after breakfast, second breakfast, elevenses, luncheon and afternoon tea, I was about to bust at the seams.  We still had two more meals to go!!  But I digress.

One of my favorite character developments in the stories was that of Strider/Aragorn.  Aragorn was the rightful heir of the crown of men in middle earth.  Yet he chose a life of exile of sorts because he felt unworthy to lead.  He had seen both the failures of his ancestors and his own, and decided to neglect his duty to a higher calling.  As the stories progress, Aragorn realizes his position is not for his benefit, but for the benefit of the people.

Often times I have felt stuck in the same place as Strider.  I don’t feel worthy of the goodness of God (which I’m not), so I allow myself to make poor decisions and act in ways that do not display the love of God to others.  But, as I wallow in self-pity about how I am not good enough to do anything good, God is calling me out and urging me to rely on His goodness. 

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

2 Corinthians 5:17

Life Application  Jesus, help me to act in the newness you have given me.  Give me the courage and boldness of a son of the king.  In finding this confidence, help me to find new ways to serve others for You.  For I am no longer a slave to sin.

and just for fun.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6t9OF8_3n8  

-Tyler Galloway