1 Peter 2: 9, 10
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. At one time you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. At one time you were not shown mercy, but now you have been shown mercy.
Dear Heavenly Father,
What an all-inclusive yet exclusive group you have made us a part of—your chosen people. As Peter wrote, once we were not a people, but now we as believers all belong to you, and the benefits are unbelievable. For starters, we get to be close to you—the one who has created everything and to whom everything belongs; we are yours. Next is the rest that comes with being part of your kingdom, an eternal rest from everything that can cause us harm or grief. Moreover, you bring us into the spectacular and marvelous light out of the terrifying darkness of sin.
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 all the iniquities that separated the entire world from you. However, this gift only is delivered to people by faith, trusting in Jesus’ forgiveness. Jesus holds the keys, and by believing he has suffered and died for us, he unlocks heaven’s door, and we are made a part of your royal priesthood of believers. Consequently, the entrance remains locked for those who reject Jesus, along with his love and mercy.
Thank you for giving us faith through your Holy Spirit so that we believe in Jesus and receive forgiveness. Lord, this gift is entirely on you, so 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.