1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, the people who are God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
Dear Heavenly Father,
What an all-inclusive yet exclusive group you have made us a part of—your chosen people. Your nation is for all to belong to you, and the benefits are unbelievable; we get to be close to you—the one who has created everything and to whom everything belongs. The best part is the rest that comes with this; an eternal rest from everything that can cause us harm or grief. Moreover, you bring us out of terrifying darkness into the spectacular and marvelous light.
While you intend this gift for everyone, it is exclusive in this: it only comes to us through faith in the forgiveness of sins Jesus won. When he suffered and died on the cross, he removed the sins that separated the entire world from you. We are only let in through Jesus’ forgiveness. He holds the keys, and believing Jesus has suffered and died for us, he unlocks heaven’s door, and we are a part of your royal priesthood of believers. To those who reject Jesus, the entrance remains locked.
Thank you for giving us faith through your Holy Spirit so that we believe in Jesus and receive his forgiveness. Lord, this gift is entirely on you; thank you! Out of love for what you have done, let us tell this good news to those who still are locked out in their unbelief that through the good news of your Word, your Holy Spirit will work in their hearts; so they, too, will believe and become a part of your holy nation. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
It is no insignificant thing that God chose you to be part of his holy nation. Out of love for you, he sent his Son and allowed him to suffer in your place so you would have: forgiveness of your every sin, salvation, and eternal life.