READ
1 Peter 2:4-10
REFLECT
Competitors aim for excellence. But how do we know whether our performance is good enough? Is our performance good enough when we win the workout? Or, is it good enough when we show improvement?
This approach to competition is seeking to be approved by our performance.
Competitors of faith aim for excellence, but they do so by receiving approval prior to performing one repetition. They know they have already been approved before the workout.
DISCUSSION
- When have you felt the pressure to perform for approval? In fitness? In your job? In life?
- How could hearing words of approval before you perform help you compete with more confidence?
Scripture says we will either be approved by our works or by faith in the promises of God. If we are waiting to produce the works which hold promise of approval, then our confidence merely lies in our works. This is seeking to be approved by our performance.
But, when we believe the promises of God through Jesus Christ prior to competition, we are simply saying “thank you” through our performance. Building life on the foundation of God’s promises leads to life.
Scripture frequently reminds those who have committed their lives to Jesus Christ of their new identity in His work. The promise of a new identity in Jesus Christ provides the ability to perform in gratitude and confidence. Today’s scripture highlights four important promises available to those who find identity in Jesus Christ.
According to 1 Peter 2:9:
- You are “chosen.” Competitors of faith are promised acceptance since they are chosen by God through Jesus Christ.
- You are a “royal priesthood.” Competitors of faith are promised confidence because they have direct access to God through Jesus Christ.
- You are “holy.” Competitors of faith are promised purpose because they have been set apart for the mission of Jesus Christ.
- You are “God’s.” Competitors of faith are promised approval because they belong to God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
When we accept the gift of Jesus, we no longer need to perform for approval. Our training is a way to say “thank you” for what our performance could never do.
“So let’s do it — full of belief, confident that we’re presentable inside and out. Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps His word.” — Hebrews 10:22-23 (MSG)
SKILL WORK
- Which of the four promises listed above are most difficult for you to believe?
- How does believing these promises empower you to aim for excellence? In your training? In your job? In life?
- Have you accepted these promises through believing in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
