Chosen

Text: 1 Peter 2:4-10

Theme: God chose us to be living stones and shining lights among the heathen.

Key verses: “You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God’s temple. He was rejected by people, but he was chosen by God for great honor. And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God” (v. 4-6). “‘He is the stone that makes people stumble, the rock that makes them fall.’ They stumble because they do not obey God’s word, and so they meet the fate that was planned for them. But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light” (v. 8-9).

What God said to me: First of all, Dwayne, know Who it is you are coming to. Peter wanted his readers to realize the power and significance of their relationship with Christ. This is the “Stone the builders rejected.” Peter had seen his Savior’s rejection first-hand up close and personal. Jesus was chosen by me for great honor. You are part of the spiritual building I’m building. Jesus is the Cornerstone of that building. “What’s more” you are Christ’s holy priests. Through my Son you can offer spiritual sacrifices that please me. If not for my Son and His awful sacrifice, your sacrifices would not please me. Unlike the heathen who do not know me or obey my Word, you do know me. You have been called out and chosen to be my special people to represent me on the earth. You are my very own possession. Let that sink in. I love you more than you’ll ever know or imagine. I chose you and I still choose you. Despite your shortcomings and rebellious ways at times, I have my hand on you and have great plans for you–not to harm you, but to give you a hope and a future. How are you doing on showing forth my praises, my goodness, Dwayne? How faithful are you to keep my Word and follow my Son closely? I have loved you with an everlasting love and drawn you to my side. I will never leave you or forsake you. Be sure you don’t try to leave or forsake me.

What I said to God: Holy Lord, wow, I needed this so much today. I needed to hear from You and be reminded I am Your child and chosen servant. Thank You for that! I know I am not special and that I have no merit of my own. Without You I am nothing. Without Your Son’s blood applied to my life, my sacrifices would fail miserably in pleasing You. But because of Jesus’ great sacrifice on the cross, I am forgiven and free! I can please You and know You! Thank You for that. Praise You for Your faithfulness. Please forgive me for my rebellious and ungrateful ways. I humble myself before You today. I yield my heart and thoughts and choices to Your will and way. You are my God.

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