January 29, 2018
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. ” 1 Peter 1:3-4 Christian Standard
What a description of a follower of Jesus: new birth .. living hope .. an inheritance imperishable .. undefiled .. and unfading! It’s not burdensome. It’s not probationary. It’s not threatened. And just to make sure, Peter tells you that your life in Christ is being guarded by Gods power. Can you imagine what your life would look like and feel like if you had to find your own strength to guard what has been given to you through Christ? Your new life is founded upon the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It defines who you are. You are a follower of One who walked out of a grave after dying. His death covers everything about your old life that was perishable .. defiled .. and fading away. His risen life fills you with a life that can never be lost .. taken away .. or defeated. This is the life that begins your day. God’s power guards you as you go out. Christ’s life dwells in you .. an indwelling life of grace and power. That simply means you are living every minute and moment out of His inexhaustible love. And the power? It raised Him out of grave. Why would you think that He will be any less in you? This is why your response to such a life is to bless your God and Father who has given you an unbelievable gift. Will you let His words and life carry you into this day? It only takes a moment …
“You are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 3:5 Christian Standard