Tag Archives: discipleship

December 12
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“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”  (1 Peter 3:8, NIV)

Whether in the natural human family into which we were born, or the spiritual family of God into which we both chose and were chosen; success depends on:

1. Having the same values and goals (like-minded)
2. Showing sympathy for each other
3. Displaying love for one another
4. Showing compassion
5. Displaying humility in all things

Over the next five installments of “Daily Encouragement,” we will address each in turn. For today, please consider the whole of 1 Peter 3:8, which was written to disciples that were attempting to live holy lives under extremely challenging circumstances.

Peter’s letters remind us today that we are never alone in our trials; and that God always provides us with the grace, and the tools to stand with integrity and with courage.  – Luther

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December 9
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“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”  (1 Peter 2:9, NIV)

As a disciple of Jesus, do you think of yourself as chosen?  Do you see yourself as a member of a royal priesthood; an intercessor between man and God?  Do you consider yourself a citizen of a holy nation?  To whom do you belong; are you God’s special possession?

When I was in university, it was not uncommon to encounter students who — outwardly — looked like the stereotypical poor college student but were, in fact, heirs of family fortunes.  It didn’t seem to matter to them whether they dressed-up or dressed-down, because it didn’t change the fact of who they were or their destiny.

Peter’s words remind us of how God sees everyone — repeat — everyone who claims His name.  Don’t sell yourself short, and remain mindful of the great gift God has given you today.  – Luther

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December 8
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“But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.  To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”  (1 Peter 2:20b-21, NIV)

To “follow in his steps” means going wherever He may go, even into the crucible of personal suffering for doing good.

Because He has left us “an example,” it means doing as He has done: Enduring suffering for God’s glory.

To imitate Jesus is our calling!  It may be the only glimpse of Christ at work through suffering that some of your neighbors, co-workers, family members, and friends see today.  – Luther

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