Read 1 Peter 2:11-12
Discover
1. How are Peter’s friends described in verse 11?
2. What are they warned to do?
3. What is the purpose of living this way?
Respond
Last week we learned what it means to be temporary residents and foreigners. Today we see twofold instructions that Peter gave exiled Christians who were scattered throughout Asia Minor. He gave them a negative instruction: “keep away,” and a positive instruction: “live properly.” Both play an important role in protecting us from spiritual harm and living in a way that shows who Jesus is to the world around us.
When we step into our new identities in Christ, we’re called to live for our eternal home in heaven. This means doing things in such a way that people who don’t believe in God can’t help but acknowledge Him because of our example.
Are you living with heaven in mind, not letting earthly desires consume you? In your neighborhood, home, school, and workplace, are you living in such a way that your actions refute the prejudices of unbelievers? Pray about what comes to mind as you answer those questions. Ask God to show you a next step to guard your soul while also letting the world see Jesus through you.
Want to go deeper? Read today’s verses in The Message paraphrase. What stands out to you? What do you sense God asking you to do as a result?