The Resistance - Day 01

Day 01: Monday, January 30
Read 1 Peter Chapter 1

Highlight
1 Peter 1:13 begins with the word “therefore,” which is a big word in the Bible.  It is a connecting word that tells us that whatever came before is the reason to do what is about to be encouraged.  Whenever we see a “therefore” in the Bible, it should trigger this question - “What is the therefore there for?”

In 1 Peter 1:13, the therefore marks a transition - The first half of Chapter 1 highlights the grace and work of God.  By his grace, God has chosen us just like he chose ancient Israel.  Just like he saved Israel by no work of their own, God has saved us the same way.  In fact, in even greater ways!  The promises that God made to his original followers have finally come to pass in our day through Jesus!  Those glorious truths have implications on our lives, which is what the therefore indicates.  After that word, Peter is going to begin to encourage us to live a certain way.  But the “therefore” should stick in our minds and continue to set every command that follows in the right context.  As J. Daryl Charles says, “The high privilege of being called by God entails unique responsibilities that will alienate [us from the world].”  

Reflection
Every passage in the Bible, including the one you just read, is “...inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.  It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”  Let the passage challenge you as you reflect on it, but always cling to the full context of Scripture, which tells us that “There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.”  Praise God!

  • What truth does this passage communicate about God?  About us?  About our world?
  • Has God used this passage to highlight something that is wrong in your life?
  • What does this passage teach us to do?  What is one practical thing you can do to apply this to your life?

Prayer
Let the passage we just read guide your prayers.  Use the acronym ACTS.

AdorationPraise God for the truth this passage communicated about him.
ConfessionConfess to God the thing that this passage showed you is wrong in your life.
ThanksgivingThank God for what this passage taught you was true about you and for the ways He is already helping you to do what is right.
SupplicationAsk God for help to do what this passage teaches to do and accomplish the good works he has for you.
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