How Are We Doing?

1 Peter 1:1-2 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied.

As Peter writes to these persecuted Christians, he reminds them that they were chosen and set apart by God. He reminded them that the Spirit purified them, and that by the work of the Spirit they had the ability to live in obedience to God's Word. All of this is possible, of course, because of what Jesus did on Calvary. His Blood has washed us, cleansed us, and made us pure and acceptable before the Father. This is certainly the case for us today. A true follower of Jesus is chosen and set apart. Our acceptance of the Gospel was not a surprise to God. He knew we would be one of His children long before we were even conceived. What we need to remember, especially in the midst of trials and persecution, is that we belong to Jesus, we were bought with a price (His Blood), and we have been set apart for HIS purposes. Therefore, regardless of what He allows us to face, we must stay focused on what we are called to do...proclaim Jesus to the world (or at least the circle of influence He has placed us in). How are we doing with that? If we are not willing to share Christ now, while persecution is not that intense, what will we do when it reaches the level of possible martyrdom? We have been chosen, set apart, and called to live a life of obedience. How are we doing so far?

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).