Peter continues to uplift us as believers with his instructions on holy living. These words should invigorate us and give us direction for how we should live. As followers of Christ, we want to reflect him well. We see plenty of people who call themselves Christians, but who don’t act in alignment with what Peter describes here.
Do you feel convicted to do a better job of living a life that honors Christ? It may seem a bit daunting at first, but God doesn’t expect perfection. He only desires a relationship with us that displays our obedience and worship.
Peter does a great job of showing his enthusiasm. He wants all of us to get on the same page and give Jesus the honor and respect he deserves. Peter doesn’t beat around the bush but gives direct examples of how we can do a better job of living as we belong to Jesus. He must be familiar with what it’s like to “slip back” into our old ways.
“And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favorites. He will judge or reward you according to what you do.” What did you think of Peter’s comment? After being thankful God doesn’t have favorites, my “truth hackles” went up thinking, I am saved by grace, not by works. The apostle Paul is clear on that in Ephesians 2:8, which says, “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.”
Even though in a previous verse Peter equated rewards with salvation, Peter might not be talking about salvation here but of rewards and judgments based on our behavior. Think of it like a parent handing out celebratory presents to a child for a job well done. It’s a stretch, but even obedience training our Japanese Chins comes to mind with all the treats and words of affirmation involved. It’s an image of a loving parent, too.
That’s what I imagine Peter is talking about. Because we’re building an intimate relationship with God, we can expect those corrections as well as the “rewards.” Of course, the greatest reward of all is our salvation, the saving grace that Jesus brings, which draws us to the Father. When we set our sights on that, it’s a lot easier to want to live as Peter says.
Thankfully, we are “temporary residents” here on this planet. It’s a beautiful world to live in with many temptations and treasures to enjoy. Some people get too caught up in those “toys” and “experiences” and forget the source, the Creator of all. They will likely miss out on the blessings we will see in our “permanent” home one day. At least they will have had the temporary enjoyment, albeit fleeting.
I’ve heard people say they feel like something is missing, especially when they are surrounded by all the gadgets and fine things money can buy. You can’t buy God’s love. He is the one who paid it all. “For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors.” How we respond to God for his mercy speaks volumes.
It’s common to want to take credit for our faith. But it isn’t all our doing. “Through Christ you have come to trust in God.” Jesus has been there all along to help guide us back to God, to help us find the trust we need to devote our lives as Peter teaches. I am so glad that I paid attention and listened to Jesus calling my name. I still seek him for big life decisions as well as simple, daily ones.
I hope you are feeling more dedicated to God in this moment. Perhaps Peter’s words have touched you and inspired you to be better for God. Our relationship with God will always be a work in progress as he reveals more of Himself and His kingdom. Peter is setting us up for success, giving us the tools and guidance we need for life.
Let’s pray. Father God, you deserve all honor and praise for all that you are. Not only have you created me and everything around me, but you have paid a ransom for me. My joy overflows to think of your great love for me. Draw me closer to you so that I can become more the person you created me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
