1 Peter 2:1-5
Therefore, rid yourselves of all evil, all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all slander. Like newborn babies, crave the pure milk of the word so that by it, you may grow up with the result being salvation. Certainly, you have tasted that the Lord is good! As you come to him, the Living Stone, rejected by men but chosen by God and precious, you also, like living stones, are being built as a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, in order to bring spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We ask for strength that can only come from you so that we can overcome our sinful nature. Guide us by your word to recognize our sins, bring them before you in repentance, and receive the full pardon for all our sins. In the good news of your word, we hear how Jesus has forgiven all. He suffered and died on the cross for all our sins. We pray that you would give us the craving to listen to your word and receive your salvation.
Thank you for creating faith in us, so we believe in the salvation Jesus won for us. Many will reject your word because it does not fit their lifestyle or desires and reject your love and forgiveness. For them, your mercy becomes a stumbling block.
Be with us to hold the truths of your word. So that through faith, we are living stones for your temple. Strengthen us to shed everything that is faith-destroying, so we will continue to be living sacrifices. Let our prayers and petitions that come to you be spiritual sacrifices that please you.
Lord, as we live in the world, let our Christian lives be on display for those who do not know you. Grant us opportunities to share the good news of Jesus’ pardon with them so your word would no longer be a stumbling block for them. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Because Jesus has declared you not guilty and forgiven, it is by faith that we can throw off everything evil. Only in God’s word and sacrament is your faith fed, so provide for it regularly.