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,
You created us to be societal—to be a member of a larger group. Eve was built from Adam’s rib; they became the first family. Sin entered the world, and soon after, the first son, Cain, killed his brother Able out of jealousy and pride. Sin brought darkness into your magnificent creation, but we still need and desire to be part of a larger group. As sin continues to cause problems with your creation, people abuse your good gifts, and sin’s darkness is cast over our society. Pride and jealousy continue to plague us—like Cain and Able—Satan continues to use his lies and hatred to destroy families.
The good news for believers is this: while we live in this world, we are a part of something greater than these worldly societies. We are part of Your family; we are adopted into You. You selected and made us into a royal priesthood, a holy nation. It was because of Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross that He died for every single sin. So that by believing in His forgiveness, we are indeed forgiven. This means Christ has removed all the sins that would keep us away from You. By faith, we are Yours. You made us into an even greater group, the body of believers, all a part of Your holy temple, by bringing us out of the darkness of our sins into Your marvelous light. We thank You for making us Your people.
May our praises of being Your people chime in the ears of those who do not know or trust You. Let our praises about Your grace and mercy catalyze many others to believe in You. As they hear of Your love and forgiveness, may the gospel message lead to more adoptions into Your family and Your Holy nation. Please give us the courage to overcome our fears and share the good news about Your forgiveness. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
To receive membership into God’s holy nation is by faith in Jesus alone. God wants all to be there; however, He does not force anyone. Hear, know, and trust that God loves you; He sent His Son to die in your place so you have eternal life. That is God’s love for you.