1 Peter 1:13-16
13 Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. 14 As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:13-16 NIV)
Message:
The imminent return of Christ should motivate us to live for him. This means being mentally alert (prepare your minds for action), disciplined (self-controlled), and focused (set your hope fully). Are you ready to meet Christ? The God of Israel and of the Christian church is holy – HE SETS THE STANDARD FOR MORALITY. He is a God of mercy and justice who cares personally for EACH of His followers. Our Holy God EXPECTS us to imitate him by following his high moral standards. Like him, we should be both merciful and just; like him, we should sacrifice ourselves for others. Peter tells us to be like our Heavenly Father – holy in everything we do. Holiness means being totally devoted or dedicated to God, set aside for his special use and set apart from sin and its influence. Our focus and priorities must be his. Don’t use the excuse that you can’t help slipping into sin. Call on God’s power to free you from sin’s grip.
