Holy
CHOSEN of GOD, HOLY & BELOVED
“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of …“
“Chosen of God, holy and beloved” should be laminated and worn daily as a reminder of who we Christians are. Would it make a difference if it were dangling as a necklace from our necks as we discipline our children? Would it cause us to think twice before we honked our horn at someone who edged into our parking place? How would the reminder affect us when we’re grappling with feelings of low self-worth? What effect woud the reminder have on Satan as he prowls, seeking someone to devour? Might he turn and look for someone weak in their faith, rather than us? How might “chosen, holy, and beloved” affect the tone of our voice when meeting with a coach, teacher, or business associate with whom we’re upset? How would it affect our converstation with someone with whom we’re chatting? How would it affect our attitude toward our spouse, sibling, or parent? God chose (elected) us to be holy and blameless. He loves us. Since we weren’t holy and blameless, He made us holy and blameless in Christ. Now, God wants us to act like who we are and whose we are.
Heavenly Father, forgive me. Too often I forget who I am and whose I am. Replace my rebellious spirit with Your Spirit so they I act and speak in ways that honor and glorify Your name.
From If God in In Control, Why Am I a Basket Case?
Holy, Blameless, & Beyond Reproach
“And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach—”
Picture it. You’re in heaven. Myriads of angels surround God’s throne. You’re overwhelmed by God’s glory and majesty. You fall prostrate before Him. Then, suddenly, Christ presents you to His Father. “This is _(insert your name)___.” Jesus continues, “She/he is holy, blameless, and beyond reproach.” Gulp! Me, holy? Me, blameless? My mind is whirling with sins I’ve committed.” But neither God the Father or Son seem concerned. Their faces show only love. Their eyes welcome me. Jesus extends His nail scared hand. “You are holy, blameless, and beyond reproach. I took care of things in your past for you.” There is no way to describe the relief, the weight lifted from my chest. “Christ is going to present me holy, blameless, and beyond reproach.” Say it to yourself. Say it often. Then in gratitude, bow and worship.
Lord God, no words can describe what it feels like as I contemplate that Jesus will present me to You as holy, blameless, and beyond reproach. Thank You for the great sacrifice You both made! Thank You for the gift of forgiving my sin and the guilt of my sin.
from If God is In Control, Why Am I a Basket Case?
