1st Peter 2:11-12 AMPC
Beloved, I implore you as aliens and strangers and exiles [in this world] to abstain from the sensual urges (the evil desires, the passions of the flesh, your lower nature) that wage war against the soul. Conduct yourselves properly (honorably, righteously) among the Gentiles, so that , although they slander you as evil doers, [yet] they may by witnessing your good deeds (come to ) glorify God in the day of inspection [ when God shall look upon you wanders as a pastor or shepherd looks over his flock].
Let’s read this in modern day terminology or language below by reading the passage from the Message from Eugene H. Peterson.
1st Peter 2:11-12 MESSAGE
Friends, this world is not your home, so don’t make yourselves cozy in it. Don’t indulge your ego at the expense of your soul. Live an exemplary life so that your actions refute their prejudices. Then they’ll be won over to God’s side and be their to join in the celebration when he arrives.
In what way(s) are you living like the world instead of living as an Ambassador for the LORD here on earth?
Now read Romans 12:1-2 ESV below:
I appeal to you therefore brothers (and sisters), by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
How do you present yourself as a living sacrifice to God?
In what ways do you die to the desires of the flesh with the power of God through the Holy Spirit who resides in you?
Write out the definitions for the following words below:
- Conformed
- Discernment
In your current circumstances which you are in the midst of daily, how are you being tested by the LORD in order to grow in your relationship with HIM?
What are you focusing on in these circumstances?
Describe your current relationship with the LORD and discuss in what areas in which God wants your focus and obedience by listing the situations that you are in?
Do you feel like your “going around and around the same mountain without going higher up the mountain” or are you stuck in a pit and cannot get out it without the intervention from GOD? WHY?
Close today’s session in the word with a time of reflection over the answers and in prayer. Ask the LORD for help and HIS direction in your circumstances. Then Give HIM the praise as you walk what the LORD tells out.
Living Fountain 