Living in Today’s Culture

 

Scripture: 1 Peter 2:11-12 (NIV)

Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among those who may not share our beliefs, that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

Devotion:

Ensuring our lives reflect our faith is a lasting challenge, especially in today's culture. In 1 Peter 2:11-12, we are reminded of our position as 'foreigners and exiles,' which calls us to live differently from the world around us. This metaphor emphasizes that our true home is not in this world but in the kingdom of God. Just as a foreigner or exile in a strange land adheres to different customs and values, we are called to follow the customs and values of God's kingdom. Peter urges us to abstain from sinful desires that wage war against our souls. These desires, often cultivated by society's norms, can lead us away from the path of righteousness and obscure our spiritual vision.

Here, the focus is on the internal struggle. Sinful desires—whether they appear as greed, lust, envy, or anger—represent battles we must confront daily. The metaphor of warfare is fitting, as it highlights the seriousness of this spiritual conflict. It is not a casual skirmish, but a relentless battle that demands vigilance and perseverance.

Living among those not sharing our beliefs adds another layer of complexity. Peter encourages us to lead such exemplary lives that our good deeds shine through even amid accusations of wrongdoing. These good deeds can encompass acts of kindness, forgiveness, or service to others. This idea is particularly poignant today, as misunderstandings and misrepresentations of faith, such as associating it with intolerance or hypocrisy, are often rampant. Our actions must speak louder than any accusations. By embodying the virtues of compassion, kindness, patience, and humility, we reflect Christ’s love and illuminate a world that frequently embraces darkness.

Peter’s exhortation powerfully reminds us that our lives are testimonies of our faith. The ultimate goal is not just to defend ourselves against false accusations but to glorify God. Our good deeds function as a witness to others, drawing them toward the divine. On the day God visits us, whether in our hearts or at the final judgment, our lives should testify to His transformative power.

Practically, this means making conscious choices that align with our faith. It involves regular self-reflection and a commitment to spiritual growth. It means standing firm in our values, even when they are countercultural. This may include choosing to forgive when it's easier to hold a grudge or being honest when it's easier to deceive. It requires us to be role models of integrity, love, and service, demonstrating through our actions what it means to lead a life dedicated to God.

Prayer:

            Lord, let us always remember that this world is not our eternal home. Please help us obey Your word and closely follow Your ways. May our faith in Christ shine brightly. Lord, forgive us if we attempt to hide our faith under a basket. Lord, make us true Christians so that we can confidently engage with a world that needs a better story—the story of Jesus. Amen.