May/June 2011

Food
That
ENdures
Also: Called to be God’s children
Dear friends,
This edition of Today looks at the gospel
through two lenses: food and family.
Of course, the two go hand-in-hand.
Especially on holidays, families get together
to remember, to celebrate—and, yes, to eat.
Family gatherings are often built around
culinary traditions. For example, at our
house, turkey is customary for Thanks­
giving Day, and ham makes an appearance at Easter. Christmas
Eve always finds chocolate in the shape of letters filling the
stockings by the fireplace. And New Year’s Eve is the one time of
year when we gather with extended family to make fried cakes.
Food and family—they meet in the church too, around a meal
that goes back almost 2,000 years. Ever since Jesus Christ
birthed the family that gathers in his name, the church has been
enriched at a table known for what might be thought meager
fare. But the bread and wine at the Lord’s Supper point to a
grace so fierce and yet forgiving that it is enough to bind us
together with God—and with each other.
As summer approaches, make time for those backyard picnics
with family and friends. And make time to gather with God’s
family for worship. It’s worth the effort. After all, such gatherings
are a taste of a table fellowship that will stretch to eternity (see
Revelation 19:9).
Blessings,

Bob
 Today
May/June 2011

refresh, refocus, renew

TODAY (USPS 185-140),

Volume 61, Number 3,
published bimonthly by
ReFrame Media, a division
of Back to God Ministries
International, at 6555 West
College Drive, Palos Heights, IL
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at Palos Heights, Illinois, and at
additional mailing offices.
“Food That Endures”
Postmaster: Send address
Sergei Sosedkin changes to Today, 6555 W.
College Dr., Palos Heights, IL
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Copyright © 2011, Back to
God Ministries International.
Printed in U.S.A.
Unless otherwise noted,
Scripture quotations in this
publication are from the
Holy Bible, Today’s New
International Version (TNIV),
© 2001, 2005, International
“Called to Be
Bible Society. All rights
God’s Children” reserved worldwide.
Calvin Hoogendoorn
Cover photo by Edwart Visser.
Theological Editor: Robert Heerspink
Managing Editor: Eleanor Lamsma
Executive Editor: Steven Koster
this month
Food That Endures
Sergei Sosedkin
Palos Heights, Illinois

Many readers use Today as part of their daily devotional time after a
meal. This month Rev. Sergei Sosedkin invites us to reflect on food-
related topics and images.
Many biblical teachings are given to us in symbols about food and
meals. That shouldn’t surprise us. After all, cuisines tend to reflect and
define not just our various cultures but all of human civilization. In
these devotions the author draws upon biblical passages, life stories,
personal memories, and culinary secrets to reflect on being a true fol-
lower of Christ.
As Jesus, the bread of life, teaches us, “Do not work for food that
spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man
will give you” (John 6:27).

Rev. Sergei Sosedkin is the Russian-language ministry leader for Back to

God Ministries International. He is a native of Moscow, Russia. As he
oversees the Russian-language ministry, Rev. Sosedkin works from our
office in suburban Chicago and in various locations in Russia.
Psalm 36:7-9 SUNDAY, MAY 1

UNFAILING LOVE
People . . . feast on the abundance of your house; you give them
drink from your river of delights. —Psalm 36:7-8

When I came from Russia to famines, of exotic dishes and

the United States as a college special wines, of joyful feasts
student, I was surprised to hear and somber meals. It’s not a
so many questions about my cookbook, but all these things
native Russian cuisine. “Why help us learn more about God
would anyone care?” I won- and his kingdom.
dered while describing our
Today’s verses talk about the
borscht and potato-and-meat
Lord as our ultimate refuge
salads. Then someone explained
and source of goodness. In his
to me, “This way we learn more
unfailing love, God provides us
about your culture and you!”
with food, water, and shelter.
Throughout history, food has All good things are his gifts.
played a critical part in shap-
Do you know the Giver as well
ing and defining our cultures.
as his gifts? Are you secure in
In fact, human civilizations as
his protection? Are you drink-
we know them place a lot of
ing from his fountain of life?
emphasis on harvesting, cook-
ing, and preserving food. So it’s
always helpful to find out about
other people’s cuisine when we Lord, we praise you for
are getting to know them and your unfailing love and
their way of life. protection. Thank you for
giving us food, water, and
Some people are surprised to shelter to meet our daily
find that the Bible is filled with needs. In Jesus’ name,
food-related references and im- Amen.
ages. It talks of rich harvests and
1 Peter 2:21-25 MONDAY, MAY 2

THE KEY INGREDIENT

“[Christ] himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that
we might die to sins and live for righteousness. —1 Peter 2:24

Borscht is a popular soup with sins, the innocent for the guilty.
its origins in Ukrainian cuisine. Thanks to that, his followers can
The classic borscht recipe might now receive spiritual healing—
include all kinds of vegetables new life! As we are joined in
and meats. But there’s one key faith with Christ’s cross and res-
ingredient—a red beet that urrection, we live new lives and
gives the soup its famous deep present ourselves to God as his
reddish-purple color. No beets, instruments for righteousness.
no borscht.
Some people try to be creative.
Do you know the key ingredi- They concoct new religious
ent of Christianity? It’s the cross ideas and beliefs under the
of Christ. It’s true that sincere name of Christianity. But if the
believers sometimes debate fine cross of Christ is no longer at
points of the Christian faith. But the center, you no longer have
there can be no Christianity the gospel.
without the redemptive mes-
The cross shows us the power
sage of the cross.
of God’s love and mercy and
The great theologian Martin gives us the hope of salvation.
Luther put it this way: “No man
understands the Scriptures, un- Lord, thank you for send-
less he be acquainted with the ing your Son to die for
cross. . . . The cross alone is our us. Make us worthy of his
theology.” cross! And help us to take
The historic good news is that up our crosses and follow
Christ died on the cross for our you. Amen.
Hebrews 13:5-6 TUESDAY, MAY 3

TO BE CONTENT
Be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never
will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” —Hebrews 13:5

As a teenager, I enjoyed go- ones, and of course life itself—

ing to a neighborhood grocery all are precious gifts from the
store. There my friends and I Lord. But discontent, greed, or
would get a roll of bread and a fears don’t allow us to fully ap-
few slices of cheese for a snack. preciate and treasure the pre-
An elderly lady who worked cious gifts of life.
at the store would always say
We don’t know what the future
some kind and encouraging
holds. We might have to go
words to us, as she carefully
through difficult times of having
sliced our cheese.
“no cheese on the shelves”—or
A few short years later the worse. But as the children of
USSR was collapsing. Because God we are assured of his con-
of major economic disruptions, tinuous love and care. The Lord
all cheese disappeared from himself is our helper in this per-
the grocery shelves. Most other ilous life.
food items became scarce too.
The store was still open, but it
sold only bread. My memories
of a kind lady who sliced cheese
for us seemed almost unreal,
but they still warmed my heart Father in heaven, thank
in those difficult times. you for being our reliable
helper and protector. Give
The Bible calls us to be thankful us a heart of contentment
for and content with everything and thanksgiving! Through
we have. Our family, health, Jesus, your Son, Amen.
meals we can share with loved
John 3:16-17 WEDNESDAY, MAY 4

SOMETHING WORTH TREASURING

“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only
Son . . . .” —John 3:16

The Siege of Leningrad (now mary of all God has done for
St. Petersburg) was one of the us. But in some parts of the
­longest and most destructive world it has become so familiar
sieges in history. Nazi forces held that sometimes its truth can be
the city hostage for over two taken for granted.
years, severely disrupting incom-
To those who are aware of
ing supplies. This resulted in a
their need for God, however,
terrible famine, and up to 1.5
this text is as valuable as a loaf
million people perished.
of bread to a hungry victim of
Those who lived through the famine. Propelled by his love
siege no longer took daily bread for humanity, God the Father
for granted. The aunt of a man sent his one and only Son to
I work with was one of the sur- save us. Now those who believe
vivors. Mikhail recalls that even in him are saved from death
50 years later she planned her and destruction—they “shall not
grocery shopping in such a way perish.” Let us trea­sure this lib-
that not a single piece of food erating truth every moment of
would be wasted. On rare occa- our lives!
sions when her bread became
stale she would soak it in water
and feed it to birds. Our heavenly Father,
thank you for sending
Today we are focusing on what your Son, Jesus Christ.
is probably the most famous Help us to live a life of
verse in the Bible: John 3:16. It thanksgiving for your sal-
has been called “the gospel in vation! Amen.
a nutshell” because it’s a sum-
Matthew 25:31-40 THURSDAY, MAY 5

FEEDING THE HUNGRY

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters
of mine, you did for me.” —Matthew 25:40

Currently, one out of every our next meal. But our health is
­seven Americans receives gov- hardly threatened when dinner
ernmental food assistance, or is delayed for an hour!
food stamps. The Wall Street
For Jesus it was very different. As
Journal reports that in some
a person who lived in poverty,
poorer communities lines form
he knew the weakening effects
in grocery stores at midnight on
of hunger and thirst. He under-
the first day of the month. That’s
stood the plight of the needy.
when the next monthly batch
(See Luke 9:58.) And the amaz-
of food stamps becomes valid.
ing part is that when we help
I personally know a hard-­work­ people who are less fortunate,
ing family in Chicago who we are lending a helping hand
struggled with occasional hun- to the Lord himself.
ger after their main breadwin-
Let’s look around. It’s likely that
ner lost his job as a truck driver.
there are hungry people nearby
It wasn’t easy for them to ask
who need our help.
for help, but eventually they
did so. The wife was moved to
tears when a deacon from their
church stopped by for a visit Lord, help us to see you
with bags full of groceries. in the destitute people in
our community, in our
Most of us are fortunate enough country, and beyond. May
not to know much about real we find concrete ways to
hunger and thirst. From time to help them in your name.
time we might complain that Amen.
we are famished as we wait for
John 6:25-37 FRIDAY, MAY 6

UNIVERSAL HUNGER
Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will
never go hungry . . . .” —John 6:35

Physical hunger is very real in who would believe in him (John

our world today. The United 4:10, 14; 7:38). In the Middle
Nations estimates that up to East of that day it was impos-
a billion people in the world sible to imagine a meal without
struggle with food insecurity. a good loaf of bread. Bread was
That’s about one out of every easy to keep and transport. And
seven people. fresh water was precious and
often scarce in the desert-like
But a different kind of hunger
climate of the Middle East.
is even more prevalent: spiritual
emptiness and insecurity. It ex- Jesus graciously invited his
tends from the poor to the rich, ­listeners to come to him and
and from the young to the old. satisfy their spiritual needs.
Of course, exact statistics on Please come to Jesus if you
spiritual hunger are impossible struggle with hunger and thirst
to come by. But it’s safe to as- in your heart! He alone can
sume that the number of those ­satisfy!
who are spiritually hungry and
thirsty in this world is much
higher than a billion. And when Heavenly Father, we thank
our stomachs are full, our spiri- you for your loving, gen-
tual emptiness often becomes erous offer of the bread
even more pronounced. of life and living water, to
Jesus pointed to himself as the satisfy the deepest needs
ultimate “bread of life,” and he of our soul. May we seek
promised “living water” for all and find you. Amen.
2 Corinthians 6:1-2 SATURDAY, MAY 7

PATIENT GRACE
Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.
 —2 Corinthians 6:2

I once had a chance to spend a our thoughts can be far away.

few days in a monastery. My first Sometimes we get distracted
meal with everyone there was and don’t really care much for
the most memorable. After an the gospel, prayer, and obedi-
opening prayer we were served ent discipleship—or we engage
a delicious soup followed by the in them halfheartedly.
main dish. I was slowly savoring
Thankfully God’s grace and pa-
every bit of my dinner.
tience are much greater than
But after a while I noticed that those of human beings, but we
it was suspiciously quiet in the should not aim to keep God
dining room. As I looked up, I waiting. If you are behind in
discovered that everyone had your relationship with him,
finished eating. And now over please note that there is a sense
thirty people were patiently of urgency in our text: “Now is
waiting for me before they the day of salvation.” Today is
could proceed to an after- the day to find peace with God
­dinner prayer. I felt terribly em- or to recommit to serving him.
barrassed for slowing everyone
down, and I finished my meal
as quickly as I could. I hate to Heavenly Father, thank
keep people waiting! you for your patient
grace! You alone can put
Now, have you or I ever kept peace in our hearts. May
God waiting? Maybe right now I be filled with your love
God is quietly waiting for you. and grace today. In Jesus’
Sometimes, even as we read name, Amen.
the Bible and do devotions,
1 Peter 3:8-12 SUNDAY, MAY 8

UNITED IN WORSHIP
All of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be
compassionate and humble. —1 Peter 3:8

Do you like caviar? This fish-egg not to your liking may seem as
spread is considered a delicacy strange as some exotic food like
in some countries. In Russia caviar. But then others might
caviar has traditionally been have similar thoughts about
served when celebrating impor- your preferences.
tant festivities or holidays.
Because of worship-related is-
Once I was invited to a Russian- sues and other disagreements,
American wedding in Michigan. some congregations become
Somehow the bride managed to rattled by “worship wars.” As a
find Russian caviar and offered it result, their unity suffers.
to all her guests. To her surprise,
It’s good to remember that we
not a single American guest liked
go to church not just to enjoy
it. Some didn’t finish their caviar;
our favorite music. There are
others didn’t even try it.
concert halls and other venues
Even so, the wedding was a for that. True worship is the
wonderful event. After all, we celebration of our salvation in
gathered not because we were Christ. The Scripture calls us to
hungry but to celebrate the be loving and patient with our
couple’s love and commitment. brothers and sisters so that we
can praise God in harmony.
When it comes to worship
styles, we all have our prefer-
ences. Some prefer traditional Lord, give us humble and
worship; others like more con- loving hearts. Give us
temporary ways of praising the strength to love and trea-
Lord. A worship style that is sure all people. Amen.
Psalm 19:1-6 MONDAY, MAY 9

GOD’S CREATION
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the
work of his hands. —Psalm 19:1

Do you enjoy fishing? If you do, us God’s wisdom, power, and

it’s probably a relaxing form of beauty.
recreation for you. When my
We cannot fully know God by
grandfather was young, he had
simply admiring his creation,
to go fishing to feed his younger
however. Only through God’s
siblings. Fishing was a necessity,
Word can we begin to know
not a kind of recreation.
about the Lord’s deep love and
Many years later he still fished, grace shown in his Son, Jesus
but then it was for recreation. Christ. The Scriptures are like
Often he would take me along. powerful glasses that help us to
Together we enjoyed the see everything clearly.
breath­­taking beauty around
Next time you are out in God’s
us. At that time neither of us
world, pay close attention to his
had a clear understanding that
amazing work—and praise him
we were taking in the glory of
for the beauty of his creation as
God’s creation. Still, we both
you also give thanks for his love
felt something majestic, almost
and amazing grace.
religious, in the sunrise over
quiet lake waters.
Lord, thank you for your
Today’s verses tell us that God’s world that proclaims your
creation preaches a sermon glory. Thank you for send-
about its Creator. The whole ing your Son so that we
world is invited to hear and en- can see you more clearly
joy this proclamation of God’s and be reconciled to you.
glory and majesty. Creation is Amen.
not divine, but it does reflect to
Mark 12:28-34 TUESDAY, MAY 10

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR

“‘Love the Lord your God’ . . . . [and] ‘Love your neighbor as
yourself.’” —Mark 12:30-31

A boy of 15 or 16 years ap- In both the Old and New Testa­

proached me in Lithuania and ments we are commanded to
offered to carry my bag in ex- love our neighbors as ourselves.
change for money. On several occasions Jesus him-
self says that is a part of fulfilling
I asked with some suspicion,
God’s law. Again and again he
“What do you need money
shows us how to love others.
for?” Often teenage beggars
used money for their addictions. Certainly there are people who
He pointed to his stomach and might try to take advantage of
said he was very hungry. us. But that doesn’t excuse us
from helping those who are in
I wasn’t convinced. I told him
real need. Let’s not allow our
I wouldn’t give him any cash,
suspicions and cynical attitudes
but I invited him to the nearest
to stop us from showing God’s
grocery store. To my surprise,
love to our neighbors and from
he agreed.
fulfilling God’s commandment
At the store the boy chose a to us.
loaf of cheap bread and a value-
size bottle of drinkable yogurt.
As soon as I paid for the items, Lord, we know that with-
the boy began eating the bread
out loving our neighbor
greedily right at the checkout.
we cannot love you. Give
At that moment I felt guilty for
us a sacrificial spirit and
doubting in my heart his pleas
for help. wisdom so that we can
do both. Amen.
Psalm 46:1 WEDNESDAY, MAY 11

THE MOST SECURE REFUGE

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
—Psalm 46:1

When you are enjoying your how dependent we all are on

dinner, do you think about the the many variables that need
farmers who grew this food to fall into place to allow farm-
for you? Are you thankful for ers to put food on our tables.
them? Farming is a difficult job We forget how dependent we
that requires a special kind of are on God. Today’s passage
talent and commitment. reminds us that the God upon
whom we depend is our refuge
I’m a city boy, but I’ve had a
and strength—our help in every
chance to visit and make friends
kind of trouble. Psalm 46 states
with quite a few farmers in the
that even if continents break up
United States and Canada. I al-
and sink beneath surging wa-
ways marvel at their work ethic,
ters, we are not fearful. What a
generosity, and devotion to
powerful confession!
Christian ministry. One farmer
explained why he was so in- No matter where we live or
volved in supporting Christian what kind of life situation we
causes. He said, “As a farmer, are going through, we have
I depend on God daily. I want ­secure protection in the Lord.
others to know that they can
lean on him too.”
Father, thank you for be-
Many of us who live in cities ing our refuge! When dif-
have a false sense of security. ficult times and circum-
I’m guilty of that as well. We stances come, we can al-
think our bread comes from ways feel safe in your love
a grocery store and our milk and protection. Amen.
from the local dairy. We forget
Isaiah 25:1-9 THURSDAY, MAY 12

THE MOST LAVISH FEAST

“Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us.”
 —Isaiah 25:9

Have you heard of Kobe beef? What’s the reason for this lav-
It comes from Japan and makes ish celebration? It’s the sover-
for the most expensive steaks in eign Lord’s victory over death,
the world—more than $250 for the complete elimination of all
an eight-ounce serving. But this mourning and suffering.
hefty price pales in comparison
We know that on the cross Jesus
to three bottles of 1869 vin-
dealt a mortal blow to death.
tage wine that sold for a record
Because of that, we know we
$230,000 each at an auction in
can lean on him as we face this
Hong Kong!
last enemy. Our physical death
I doubt that many of us will ever cannot break our relationship
feast on a Kobe beef steak or with the life-giving Savior. We
19th-century wines. Personally, are with Christ in death. And,
I am not too worried about amazingly, we can look forward
that. But I do hope we will see to Christ’s banquet table, where
each other at a great banquet we will celebrate God’s complete
described by the prophet Isaiah. victory over death and evil.
This is a special feast that is yet
to happen. The Lord will gath-
er his people from all over the Father, thank you for sav-
world. The best cuts of meat ing us. As your people,
and aged wines will be served. we are under your care,
Something tells me those steaks waiting for the wonderful
and wines will be much better banquet celebrating your
than the most coveted foods of victory. What a celebra-
today. tion that will be! Amen.
Psalm 119:113-120 FRIDAY, MAY 13

TRUE COMFORT
You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your
word. —Psalm 119:114

What’s your favorite comfort the Word of God. Today’s verse

food—a special treat that gives comes from the longest psalm
you a sense of well-being, a mo- in the Bible. Remarkably, Psalm
ment of satisfaction? Statistics 119 is a devotional reading on
say that the most popular com- the Word of God. The psalmist
fort foods in North America are reminds us of God’s wonderful
ice cream, potato chips, and promises and sensible direc-
chocolate. tives for life. His firm conviction
is that the Word of God is our
I think it’s fine to enjoy an occa-
best refuge in tough times.
sional treat. But dieticians warn
that the increasing consumption Next time you feel stressed, try
of comfort food is a key factor using the psalmist’s technique.
in today’s widespread diabetes Dive into God’s Word, medi-
and obesity. When we are un- tate on its wisdom, rediscover
der stress, it’s difficult to put the his promises for you in Jesus
right amount of ice cream into Christ, and trust those promises
the bowl. Overeating becomes with all your heart.
an unhealthy response to issues
that play on our emotions. Father, thank you for your
Sad and difficult times happen Word and for the encour-
in everyone’s life. And everyone agement we find in it.
occasionally feels overwhelmed Help us to use your Word
and stressed out. to stay focused on Jesus
Christ, in whose name we
When such times come, we
can always find true comfort in pray. Amen.
John 6:57-58 SATURDAY, MAY 14

THE RIGHT DIET

“Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father,
so the one who feeds on me will live because of me.”—John 6:57

If you are in the market for a Do you want to be spiritually

diet, there are many to choose healthy? Do you feel exhausted
from: Atkins, South Beach, veg- and disappointed after going
an, Mediterranean—the list goes through a number of spiritual
on and on. I believe some diets diets? Do you lack energy for
might be helpful if used in con- your daily walk with God?
junction with a healthier lifestyle.
Turn to Jesus, and he will replen-
But many of them overpromise
ish your strength. Remember
and underdeliver. As one doctor
that every day we need some
said, “The answer isn’t a crash
time for reading his Word, con-
diet. It’s permanently adopting
versing with him in prayer, and
healthy eating habits.”
reflecting on his love. Let Jesus
When it comes to spiritual nutri- become your source of spiritual
tion, there is no lack of available nutrition, and he will never dis-
diets either. But only one spiritu- appoint you. He is the one who
al diet works; only one provides supplies spiritual health, inner
the nutritional ingredient we strength, and life everlasting.
need for a healthy walk of faith.
In today’s passage we read that
the living Father sent his Son,
Jesus, in order to find and save Father, we praise you for
his lost ones. Now everyone sending your Son, our
who turns to Jesus in faith and only source of spiritual
depends on him for spiritual health. Keep feeding us in
food connects to the life-giving our walk of faith! Amen.
strength of God the Father.
Ephesians 2:1-10 SUNDAY, MAY 15

GOD’S HANDIWORK
We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good
works . . . . —Ephesians 2:10

When my friends moved from rather our way of living out our
one Canadian province to an- faith.
other, they didn’t know anyone
What can you do as God’s
in their new community. What
handi­work to make a difference
was one of the first things they
in your community?
decided to do in the area? They
volunteered at a food pantry Maybe you can support a local
and served holiday meals to food bank or another outreach
people who were less fortunate. program. Maybe you can vol-
As they worked, they were sur- unteer at your local church or
prised to see so many people a local non-profit organization.
from all walks of life in need of There are many people out
a free dinner. there who are hungry for God’s
love and our care.
During my seminary years I also
spent some time volunteering
at a food pantry. Our ministry
included not only feeding the
hungry and homeless but also
Father God, we praise
sharing the gospel, providing
advice on social services, and you for making us new
listening to life stories. crea­tures in Christ! In
him you have shown us
Today’s passage describes believ- what true love is. Teach
ers as “God’s handiwork, cre- us how to love not only
ated in Christ Jesus to do good with words but also with
works.” Doing good works is tangible ­actions. Amen!
not a part of our salvation but
Ephesians 4:25-32 MONDAY, MAY 16

RELATING TO OTHERS
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other,
just as in Christ God forgave you. —Ephesians 4:32

One of my college friends was a In today’s reading the apostle

student from the African nation Paul calls us to be loving and
of Eritrea. I remember I couldn’t compassionate in our relation-
figure out how he could eat the ships with others. When we talk
food that he sometimes cooked to our friend, let us remember
for himself. It was so spicy! Even that he or she might be more
a tiny piece of his dish would sensitive—just like some people
burn my mouth for hours. are sensitive even to a mildly
spicy dish. And if we feel that
But that was the food he was
others are purposefully hurt-
used to and had eaten since
ing us, let’s keep in mind that
childhood. He perceived the
they might not have intended
regular American diet as ex-
to do that. It might be a case
tremely bland and tasteless.
of simple miscommunication or
In our childhood we become misunderstanding.
accustomed to certain foods.
And even if the offense is real,
We also learn in childhood how
we are called to be imitators of
to relate to others. Due to dif-
God in forgiving others as he
ferent upbringing and cultural
has forgiven us.
backgrounds, we sometimes
perceive other people as hurtful
even though they do not mean Our heavenly Father, give
to offend us. Or we might unin- us your Spirit of kindness
tentionally hurt those who are and forgiveness. Help us
more sensitive than we are. reflect your love in this
world. Amen.
Colossians 3:15-17 TUESDAY, MAY 17

A MEALTIME PRAYER
Whatever you do . . . do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving
thanks to God the Father through him. —Colossians 3:17

Many Christians value a tradi- to pray, and he felt too prideful

tion of mealtime prayer. A god- to go to church to find out. He
ly farmer once explained to me was over 30 years old when he
why such prayer is important finally read the New Testament
to him. “My prayer before the for the first time. He tells us
meal is something that really that praying turned out to be
sets me apart from my animals easier and more natural than he
that I feed daily,” he said. Of all thought.
earth’s creatures, only human
If you don’t have a habit of reg-
beings can consciously and will-
ularly communicating with God
fully praise their Creator.
in prayer—whether at meals or
In a mealtime prayer we ex- at other times—why not try
press our gratitude to God for it? Your prayers can become a
our food and for all good things great source of encouragement
in our lives. We thank God for in your relationship with God.
everyone who helped provide
and prepare the meal—from the
farmer who raised the crops to
those who prepared the food.
We pray for our loved ones
who cannot join us at the table Our heavenly Father, you
but who are close to our hearts. give us the great privilege
We also ask for God’s blessing of fellowshiping with you
on our mealtime fellowship. in prayer. Fill our hearts
with praise and thanksgiv-
Evgeniy, one of our radio listen- ing to you! Amen.
ers in Russia, didn’t know how
Philippians 4:4-7 WEDNESDAY, MAY 18

BIBLICAL PRAYER
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation . . . with
thanksgiving, present your requests to God. —Philippians 4:6

Vending machines are conve- r­ eal­ly does not hurt him, but we
nient when you are in a hurry. hurt ourselves spiritually when
If you have cash, they can sup- we grumble and complain.
ply you a quick snack or drink.
Today’s verse teaches about
But the technology isn’t perfect. prayer attitudes. Biblical prayer
Sometimes the machine won’t is deeply rooted in our relation-
accept your old, worn dollar. ship with God the Father and in
Worse yet, it might not deliver our attitudes toward the people
a product after swallowing your around us.
money. Some unfortunate cus-
The Lord is near. So we can sin-
tomers get so upset that they
cerely rejoice in his love. That’s
vandalize the machine while try-
how restlessness is removed
ing to take out their purchase.
from our hearts. The Scriptures
Sometimes we have similar at- don’t say that all prayers will be
titudes as we pray to God. We fulfilled. But we are promised
try to use God as some kind of the all-embracing peace of God.
heavenly vending machine, and
we demand quick fulfillment of
our prayer requests—or per­haps Lord, thank you for being
we should call them “prayer near. That’s why we don’t
­orders”! have to be anxious about
When we pray in that way, we anything. We can pour
grow restless and upset if we out our hearts before you,
don’t get the desired results. trusting in your love and
Our grumbling against God mercy. Amen.
Mark 12:41-44 THURSDAY, MAY 19

AN EXTRAORDINARY GIFT
Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the
treasury than all the others.” —Mark 12:43

North American tourists are in the temple treasury. Her total

known throughout Europe as giving was a sign of her total
good tippers. Often the service commitment to God.
charge is already included in the
As a former waiter who relied
price of a restaurant meal, and
on the generosity of the people
yet the unsuspecting tourists
I served, I believe it’s better to err
add a 15% tip to that amount.
by overpaying the restaurant tip
No wonder they come across
than by underpaying it. And as a
as generous!
Christian, I’m convinced that the
Today’s verses tell the story of Lord doesn’t simply ask us to de-
a widow’s extraordinary gift. vote a part of our lives to him. He
As she approached the temple expects our total commitment.
treasury, she put in two very
Just a few days after the widow
small copper coins. That doesn’t
gave her gift, Jesus gave up his
sound like much, does it? And
life for us—the most generous
yet Jesus says that her donation
act in all history. That’s why he
was the most generous of all,
rejoiced at the widow’s generos-
for she gave “everything—all
ity. That’s why he calls us to be
she had to live on.”
generous and sacrificial.
Clearly the widow’s gift wasn’t
about “tipping God.” After all, Father, thank you for your
she could have given just a generous gift of salvation
single coin—or even argued to in Jesus. Help us to live
herself that poverty excused out our gratitude to you.
her from giving at all. But in- In Jesus’ name, Amen.
stead she placed all her money
1 Peter 4:1-11 FRIDAY, MAY 20

POTLUCK
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve
others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace . . . . —1 Peter 4:10

I remember when I was invited to a potluck dinner. Is your spe-

to my first potluck dinner at a cialty a favorite casserole? Or
church in Michigan. At first I perhaps your signature dish is
didn’t understand what it was that special fruit salad! At a pot-
all about. I learned that every luck, everyone is encouraged
family had to bring a dish to to bring their best. Similarly,
share with the rest of the guests. when it comes to the ministry
It could be any kind of food— of the church, everyone has a
from the main course to salads special talent. Some are called
and desserts. Joined together, to preach the Word; others are
our dishes made for a delicious called to teach or to lead social
dinner—not to mention a won- ministries—or to use their gifts
derful fellowship time. I was in other ways. By doing all these
very impressed. things, we are extending God’s
grace “in its various forms.” We
When dinner was over, I ap-
are also praising our heavenly
proached the pastor to compli-
Father.
ment him on developing this
unique communal experience. What are your gifts? Are you
He looked surprised. After a using them for God’s glory?
pause, he explained to me that
such dinners are common in
Lord, help us to praise
North American communities.
you in unity. Give us wis-
In today’s verses Peter calls us to dom to use our gifts to
serve others with whatever gifts serve others as we work
we have. In some sense our in ministry. Amen!
service is like our contributions
John 10:7-10 SATURDAY, MAY 21

THE RIGHT SPICE

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
 —John 10:10

Every chef knows that the key “spice.” Christ came into this
to succeeding with many dishes world to make our life complete.
is finding the right combination He is our only way to eternal
of spices. You might take the happiness and fulfillment. He
best ingredients and cook them gives us purpose and meaning
perfectly, but your meal can be for every day, and he brings out
bland without a particular kind the best taste in our life.
of pepper or herbs. No won-
The best part is that we don’t
der that in medieval Europe
need perfect ingredients to en-
spices were among the most
joy the life that Jesus describes.
prized and expensive products.
Even if our health is poor or
Explorers such as Christopher
we live in poverty, our loving
Columbus and Vasco da Gama
Christ is able to bring out the
were more interested in finding
best flavor and taste in the dish
new spices than gold.
of our life.
Human life can be compared
to an elaborate dish. We might
have the very best ingredients.
We can be healthy, young, in- Father, thank you for
telligent, wealthy, and beautiful. bringing out the very best
Yet all those wonderful things taste in our life through
don’t guarantee a happy life. your Son, Jesus Christ.
We need the right “spice” to Give us wisdom to al-
make our life a success. ways listen to his voice.
In Christ’s name we pray.
Today’s verses provide valuable
Amen.
information about that special
Habakkuk 3:17-19 SUNDAY, MAY 22

REJOICING IN THE LORD

Though . . . the fields produce no food . . . yet I will rejoice in the
Lord . . . in God my Savior. —Habakkuk 3:17-18

Drought, crop failure, war, hun- As Christians, we can rejoice in

ger—these were common fears even the most challenging cir-
and events in ancient times. The cumstances because of Jesus’
same is true for many countries death and resurrection. Even in
in the world today. Even if we the toughest of circumstances—
live in a more secure environ- even when we look death in
ment, we can experience other, the face—we know that nothing
painfully real challenges to our can separate us from the love
faith. of God in Christ Jesus our Lord
(Romans 8:39).
What do you do when your
worst fears become reality? In the midst of suffering, never
How do you respond to tough forget that our God is a loving
times? What happens to your God, no matter what. By his
walk with the Lord? Spirit he comforts us. He is al-
ways in full control of our lives.
Today we turn to one of the
That joyful reality gives us hope
most powerful affirmations
even in the most difficult times.
of faith in all Scripture. Faced
with God’s predictions of war
and devastation, the prophet Heavenly Father, thank
Ha­bakkuk anticipates hunger you for being with us al-
in the land. But in the face of ways! Give us strength
upcoming tragedy he proclaims to rejoice in your love
that he will still rejoice in God and protection in Christ,
his Savior. External circum- even when life gets tough.
stances are not going to stop Amen.
him from finding joy in God.
Philippians 1:21-24 MONDAY, MAY 23

LIFE WORTH LIVING

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
 —Philippians 1:21

Studies have shown that mice life but in his relationship with
that are fed a very low calorie the Lord. Paul wrote this letter
diet live 30 percent longer than from prison. He didn’t know
those that are fed a diet much what his future held, and yet he
higher in calories. The Calorie trusted the risen Christ to carry
Restriction Society is now seeking him through any trial.
to prove that such a diet will ex-
To live in the Lord and serve
tend human life too. This society
him is wonderful. And to die
is composed of a group of vol-
in the Lord is blessed, for death
unteers who consume very little
itself cannot rip us away from
food, hoping to gain a few extra
our Savior’s care. As we face up
years on this earth. They aren’t
to our own mortality and that
deterred by the fact that the starv-
of our loved ones, our hope is
ing lab animals turned out to be
rooted in the everlasting grip
unhappy and aggressive.
our Savior has upon his own.
Human life is a gift from God.
God might grant us a longer or
As Christians, we welcome
shorter life. But to be truly ful-
medical research that seeks to
filling and worthy, our life must
improve our quality of life. We
be focused in Christ.
also value moderation. I don’t
think the apostle Paul would
agree with a group like the Father, thank you for the
Calorie Restriction Society. precious gift of life. Help
us serve you ach day and
In today’s verses Paul tells his to trust you forever, in
readers that he found ultimate Jesus. Amen.
meaning not in the length of his
Romans 5:1-11 TUESDAY, MAY 24

RECONCILED TO GOD
We . . . boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through
whom we have now received reconciliation. —Romans 5:11

Etiquette gurus relish giving The first meal described in the

advice on what to eat for busi- Bible was very simple—more
ness lunches. The most com- like a light snack. But it led to
mon suggestion is not to order tragedy. At the serpent’s urg-
foods that stain, are hard to eat, ing, Adam and Eve ate the fruit
or get stuck in your teeth. No that God had told them not to
wonder it took me a while to eat. They didn’t start choking.
make my choice during a lunch But their disobedience to God
with radio network executives. resulted in sin, death, and our
I settled on a simple sandwich separation from God.
and a bowl of soup.
The joyful news is that God
But my meal choice turned out didn’t abandon us in our pre-
to be a disaster. The soup was dicament. He sent his Son, who
too spicy. I coughed because saved us from the grave conse-
of the spice, and my food went quences of Adam’s action and
down the “wrong way,” into our own disobedience. Through
my windpipe. Soon I started Jesus’ death and resurrection he
coughing badly, almost chok- reconciles us to God the Father.
ing. It looked serious; every-
one was alarmed. Fortunately, Heavenly Father, thank
the Heimlich maneuver wasn’t for reconciling us to you,
needed, and I soon began through your Son. Thank
breathing normally again. But you for delivering us, in
our negotiations with that sta- Christ, from the sin of
tion didn’t go so well. Adam and our own sins!
Amen.
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 WEDNESDAY, MAY 25

THE LAST SUPPER

Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the
Lord’s death until he comes. —1 Corinthians 11:26

When preparing for a commu- Like us, the apostle Paul didn’t
nion service, I’m often remind- participate in the Last Supper.
ed of Leonardo da Vinci’s vivid He became a follower of Jesus
mural The Last Supper (1498). later. But in today’s Scripture
This painting portrays Jesus and he briefly recounts the story
his twelve disciples at a dinner and draws a direct link to our
table, at the last meal he shared regular celebrations of the Lord’s
with them before his arrest and Supper. Paul declares that at our
death. communion celebrations we
proclaim Christ crucified. When
The painting brilliantly depicts
we break the bread and drink
the facial expression of every
the cup, we picture our Savior
apostle after hearing Jesus’ pre-
suffering for us on the cross.
diction that one of them would
betray him. The disciples display When we do that, are we sad-
different reactions to the news, dened by our own failings? And
with varying degrees of surprise, are we surprised by the power
shock, and anger. Even the trai- and extent of God’s grace? Both
tor Judas is taken aback by the responses are necessary.
sudden revelation of his plan.
What would be our reaction if Father, we are surprised
we were among the apostles at by your grace and mercy.
that memorable supper? How Whenever we celebrate
do we act when we are remind- communion, help us grow
ed of Jesus’ death on the cross in the saving knowledge
because of our sin? of Christ. Amen.
2 Timothy 3:14-17 THURSDAY, MAY 26

THE PRECIOUS BOOK

The Holy Scriptures . . . are able to make you wise for salvation
through faith in Christ Jesus. —2 Timothy 3:15

If you have spent time in any of ite recipes to memory. Or they

the major bookstores in North improvise while they cook. But I
America, you will have noticed don’t know of a single Christian
the large number of cookbooks who could remain spiritually
available to browse and pur- strong without access to the
chase. There are literally hun- Scriptures. I hope you are able
dreds of choices. You can learn to have your own Bible and are
about healthy cooking, exotic making good use of it.
ethnic cuisines, and dishes you
The Word of God enlightens us,
can prepare in fewer than 10
convicts us of our sins, corrects
minutes—all with appetizing
our living, and coaches us in righ-
illus­trations!
teousness. But the most impor-
Major bookstores in North tant part is that the Bible makes
America also carry Bibles. The us “wise for salvation through
selection isn’t as extensive as the faith in Jesus Christ.” By studying
cookbook section, but it is of- the Holy Scriptures, we find the
ten plentiful. North Americans necessary nourishment and en-
are privileged to have a choice ergy for our daily walk of faith.
of different translations, edi-
tions, and commentaries. In
other countries and languages Heavenly Father, thank
Christians can only dream of you for giving us your
such variety. written Word. Help us to
be faithful students so that
I know some great chefs who we may be nourished and
have never owned a cookbook. energized by it. Amen.
They’ve committed their favor-
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 FRIDAY, MAY 27

TAKING CARE OF OUR BODIES

You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore
honor God with your bodies. —1 Corinthians 6:19-20

In the past few years a sobering Jesus gave his own body to save
statistic has emerged: over 300 us. And we are encouraged to
million people in the developed be good stewards of our physi-
world are dangerously over- cal body as well as our soul, for
weight. Obesity rates are also we belong to God both physi-
skyrocketing among children, cally and spiritually.
including children in Nigeria
Our genetics influence ­whether
and China. Doctors are now
we are tall or short, thin or
warning about the increasing
stocky. Regardless of how we
health risks of obesity.
are genetically wired, it’s part of
How should Christians respond our calling to maintain healthy
to this issue? The Bible doesn’t eating habits, moderation, and
address it directly, since this is exercise. There isn’t a perfect
a relatively new challenge. But size waistline for all believers.
the Scriptures do say that our But God does want us to be as
“bodies are temples of the Holy healthy as possible, as we serve
Spirit.” The original context for him and our neighbor.
this teaching was concern about
sexual immorality in the city
of Corinth. Against this back- Our Father, your Son
ground the apostle Paul teaches gave up his own body to
an important biblical principle save us. Give us wisdom
that applies in many situations. and dedication to take
As Christians, we are called to good care of our bodies,
value our bodies and take good because we know they
care of them. belong to you. Amen.
1 Samuel 16:1-7 SATURDAY, MAY 28

WHAT’S INSIDE?
“People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the
heart.” —1 Samuel 16:7

In Western culture today, being is the disposition of our heart:

slim is often equated with being our character, intentions, and
beautiful. It’s no wonder, then, attitudes. God looks at what’s
that in the United States alone inside, not outside.
the weight-loss market is esti-
As our Savior, the Lord expects
mated at $80 billion per year—
and treasures our devotion to
or over $150,000 per second!
him. If we are dieting, we have
But dieticians warn that weight-
to ask ourselves, “What’s our
loss products are often not reli-
primary motivation?” Are we
able, and some diets are even
seeking to honor God through a
harmful to our health.
healthy body, or are we just con-
The fascination with being cerned with our looks? Vanity
slim starts at a very young age. can be spiritually dangerous. But
Photoshopped images of models our devotion and commitment
create unrealistic expectations in are pleasing to the Lord.
children, especially for girls. As
children grow up, some start
feeling unhappy and depressed.
In extreme cases this can lead to
serious eating disorders.
Our Father, help us to
We need to be good stewards be honest with ourselves.
of our bodies to honor God Give us the right motiva-
with the bodies he has given tions and set us free from
us. The Lord says he does not sins of vanity. In Jesus’
look first of all at outward ap- name we pray. Amen.
pearances. His primary concern
Hebrews 5:11-6:6 SUNDAY, MAY 29

MATURING IN CHRIST
Let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and
be taken forward to maturity. —Hebrews 6:1

Pavel, a listener to our Russian passed since they first expressed

programming, first wrote to us their commitment to Christ,
about five years ago. We mailed and yet they’re still babies in
him a Bible and referred him to their faith.
a local church that he started at-
Many of us also “shared in the
tending. Just lately we received
Holy Spirit” and “tasted the
an email from him saying that
goodness of the word of God”
he decided to quit his church be-
some time ago. But we must ask
cause “it’s boring.” He still knows
ourselves, “Am I advancing in
very little about Christianity.
God’s grace and righteousness?”
What a disappointment!
Studying God’s Word, praying,
Every pastor or missionary attending a local church—these
could probably tell a similar are steps that help us mature in
story. In today’s verses the au- Christ and enable us to switch
thor of Hebrews expresses his from spiritual milk to spiritual
disappointment with the slow solid food.
spiritual progress in converts to
Christianity. He wants to share
an important teaching with
them, but he can’t. His read-
Father, thank you for
ers are not ready to hear this
teaching—it will just go over feeding us daily with your
their heads. Word and Spirit! Make us
worthy students of your
Dismayed, the author says that grace and righteousness.
they still need milk instead of In Christ’s name! Amen.
solid food. Many years have
Revelation 21:1-4 MONDAY, MAY 30

THE NEW JERUSALEM

“They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and
be their God.” —Revelation 21:3

I was a little child when my ty and security of the dwelling

Christian grandmother told me place for God’s children, or the
about heaven for the first time. New Jerusalem. This city is as
I didn’t know much about God beautiful as a bride at her wed-
or the Bible, but I was fasci- ding. And the best part is that in
nated with the idea of heaven. heaven God himself joins us, his
I imagined that everyone there people. And with love and com-
would enjoy an unlimited sup- passion he wipes away all tears
ply of bananas. Why bananas? from our faces and destroys
Because they were very rare death, pain, and mourning.
in the Soviet Union. We’d get
Here on earth it’s not easy to
them once or twice a year. For
imagine heaven. But we can rest
me, as a child, nothing could
assured that in his grace Christ
convey true heaven better than
has prepared a joyful place for
the taste of a ripe banana!
those who trust him. (See John
When we reflect about our 14:1-4.)
eternity with the Lord, we are
at a loss for words. The bibli-
cal passages describing heaven
are often poetic and symbolic. Our heavenly Father, we
Inspired by God, the biblical au- look forward to one day
thors use familiar words to try joining you in the New
to describe a place that is very Jerusalem. Help us to
unfamiliar to us. overcome our worries
and to trust you fully in
In today’s passage the apostle our walk of faith. Amen.
John seeks to convey the beau-
1 Peter 5:6-7 TUESDAY, MAY 31

THE BEST PART

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
 —1 Peter 5:7

What’s your favorite part of a Sometimes we pray for a long

meal? Mine is the dessert. happy life, a kind of never-
ending dessert. But it turns out
When I was 19 years old, I went
that real life has a wide variety
for my first independent trip to
of tastes and flavors. It’s sweet
another city. There I discovered
when we look into the happy
a restaurant that served only
eyes of the people we love. It’s
sweet foods. A typical meal
bitter when tragedy strikes. Or it
would include a fruit salad,
gets salty, because of our tears.
a “soup” made out of a milk
shake, and a main dish based Real life is not a piece of cake.
on pastries shaped in the form It’s actually much more nutri-
of steak or chicken. As you tious for building up our soul—
can guess, the restaurant also but only if we humble ourselves
served a variety of stand-alone before God and fully trust him
desserts. in Christ.
Most customers would order
one piece off the menu. But I
decided to fulfill my childhood Our heavenly Father,
dream and went for a full four- thank you for giving us
course meal. It looked great. food that endures to eter-
But in the end I didn’t feel so nal life in Jesus Christ! Be
good. I didn’t even finish my with us in good times and
dessert. It turned out that hav- bad times. May we trust
ing too many sweets wasn’t so in you fully as you care
wonderful after all.
for us always. Amen.
this month
Called to Be God’s Children
Calvin Hoogendoorn
Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Through the month of June we will explore our call to be God’s chil-
dren in the world. That calling invites us to become more like Jesus,
God’s Son, through the power of his Holy Spirit living in us. He saves
us by his grace, transforms us into his likeness, and leads us to share his
love and good news with others, to the ends of the earth.
May each of us discover (or rediscover) the privilege of living as a part
of God’s family in this world, to the praise and glory of God.

Cal Hoogendoorn has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed

Church for more than 20 years in Illinois and South Dakota. Currently
he and his wife, Carla, and their four children live in Sioux Falls, South
Dakota, where Cal is the pastor of First Christian Reformed Church.
1 Peter 1:1-7 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1

WHO ARE YOU?

To God’s elect, exiles scattered . . . .
 —1 Peter 1:1

How would you answer the are children of God whose

question “Who are you?” unique identity is that of citi-
zens of heaven. But more than
You might say, “I am a Cana­
that, they are holy children of
dian,” or, “I am a faculty mem-
God whose greatest possession
ber,” or “I am a mother.” But
is Christ’s holy character. Even
a response that identifies your
more, they are living children
country, your work, or your
of God whose most profound
parental status does not answer
privilege is to glorify God (see
the question clearly.
1 Peter 4:7-11).
The question is asking about
Regardless of joy or hardship,
identity, character, and purpose.
success or failure, triumph or
Peter invites followers of Jesus
temptation, God’s call is the
to courageously profess an
map by which we may navigate
answer like this: “I am one of
a satisfying Christian life, serv-
God’s elect, chosen to be part of
ing faithfully wherever we are
God’s family spread throughout
in this world.
the world.”
The book of 1 Peter is written
to a Christian community that Dear Lord, thank you for
was persecuted for its faith, our new life in Christ.
ridiculed for its lifestyle, and Guide us not to be con-
challenged in its purpose. Peter formed to the pattern of
seeks to refresh these believ- this world, and teach us to
ers by recalling their identity live a life pleasing to you.
as God’s chosen people. They In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Romans 8:28-39 THURSDAY, JUNE 2

CHILDREN OF GOD
To God’s elect . . . who have been chosen according to the fore-
knowledge of God the Father. . . . —1 Peter 1:1-2

Our first call is to be children of ly guides our paths and prom-

God. In fact, the truth that we ises to lead us to his eternal
“have been chosen according to home. In fact, on this day when
the foreknowledge of God the the Christian church celebrates
Father” should stir joy in our Christ’s ascension into heaven,
hearts today and confidence for we can rejoice that he is prepar-
our future. ing that home for us right now
(John 14:1-3; Acts 1:4-11).
Consider the joy for today. God
knows our sins, our thoughts, Do you ever wonder if we’re
and what we hide from others. good enough for God? Well,
He also knows our tendency to we’re not. But that’s the point.
disobey and hurt him again and We are simply invited to love
again. Still, because of Jesus’ him who first loved us, and to
sacrifice on the cross, God al- look forward to the time when
ways welcomes us back into his he will call us to him! What an
presence. No wonder John de- incredible privilege!
clares: “See what great love the
Father has lavished on us, that
we should be called children of
God!” (1 John 3:1). God wants Dear Lord, please deepen
us to have the joy of full life for- our joy in your grace and
ever. give us confidence to face
the future. Establish us in
Now, consider also our confi- your love and lead us in
dence for tomorrow. Scripture your paths. In Jesus’ name,
says that God made us, saved Amen.
us, and instructs us. He also dai-
1 Peter 1:3-9 FRIDAY, JUNE 3

JOY-FILLED CHILDREN OF GOD

In his great mercy he has given us new birth . . . .
 —1 Peter 1:3

Where there is birth, there is But joy is absent from the lives
great joy. The Lord brought 42 of some of us. A Christian col-
new babies into our church fam- league once admitted, “Joy is
ily this past year. Each mother’s not part of my vocabulary.”
eyes that danced with delight How sad! The Scriptures chal-
and each father’s effortless lenge us as believers to consider
smile showed the joy that is the all God’s blessings and to live in
natural fruit of their child’s birth. joyous delight.
Similarly, our heavenly Father
The psalms especially are full of
delights in our being born again
exhortations to rejoice. “Come,
through faith.
let us sing for joy to the Lord;
“Birth” is a biblical metaphor for let us shout aloud to the Rock of
the past, present, and future life our salvation” (Psalm 95:1). How
of the child of God. It is clothed can we not be children of joy?
in a spirit of celebration! God
Will you delight in him who de-
my father “knit me together
lights in you?
in my mother’s womb” (Psalm
139:13). He gives us new birth
in Jesus Christ (John 3:16) and
expresses joy for all who share
Dear Lord, thank you for
his life. He also likens our life, the new birth we have
with its “present sufferings,” to received in Christ. We
a labor and delivery room that rejoice in your unfailing
anticipates the joy of eternal re- love and will continue
birth (Romans 8:18-25). to declare your praise. In
Jesus’ name, Amen.
1 Peter 1:3-6; Revelation 21:1-5 SATURDAY, JUNE 4

HOPE-FILLED CHILDREN OF GOD

In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope
through the resurrection of Jesus Christ . . . . —1 Peter 1:3

Many of us have experienced the shame-filled, and love that

hard times. And during those equips for new service.
times we all hope things will get
The newness we receive gives
better. Though financial crises,
us the privilege to hope for even
broken relationships, and termi-
greater things. As strangers in
nal illnesses each tell a different
the world, we live for the day of
story, they share the same ques-
Christ’s return, when “there will
tion: “Is there hope?”
be no more death or mourning
The answer is yes. Through or crying or pain.” Our ultimate
the resurrection of Jesus, the hope is to live with God forever
Lord has turned “mourning in his renewed creation!
into gladness” and sorrow into People who have this hope em-
joy (Jeremiah 31:13). This gift brace lives defined by Christ,
has been received through our the living Lord of all things,
“new birth into a living hope.” who will come again.
Christians are privileged to live Will you fix your eyes on
as God’s new creation. For them Jesus?
“the old has gone, the new is
here!” (2 Corinthians 5:16-17). Dear Lord, thank you for
The old way is defined by fear the gift of life and hope.
of judgment, shame for sin, Give us strength to face
and despair of life itself. The each day, courage to walk
new way is defined by grace your path, and hearts
that welcomes home the wan- ready to meet Jesus. In his
derer, forgiveness that frees
name, Amen.
2 Peter 3:1-13 SUNDAY, JUNE 5

ETERNAL CHILDREN OF GOD

In his great mercy he has given us new birth . . . into an inheri-
tance that can never perish, spoil or fade. —1 Peter 1:3-4

The promise of a great inheri- treasures will eventually be de-

tance of money can give us a stroyed.
sense of security and peace.
The Lord alone grants eternal
But any stability created by the
peace and security. Through his
world’s wealth is always tempo-
Holy Spirit he affirms that we
rary. In the end, the notions of
are his children, secure in his
financial peace and economic
love, and citizens of his eternal
security are false substitutes for
kingdom! Only God is able to
real, fulfilling life with God.
deliver on the promise “Never
When we allow riches to fill the will I leave you; never will I for-
place in our hearts that should sake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
be given to God, we eventually
There is only one way to receive
learn that the results are not sat-
this eternal inheritance—by fol-
isfying. As John D. Rockefeller
lowing Jesus, “the way and the
said, “I have made millions, and
truth and the life” (John 14:6).
they have brought me no hap-
Will you receive him today?
piness.”
But the problem is not in wealth Dear Lord, forgive us for
itself. Instead, the problem is in pursuing false security
our tendency to attribute to this and empty hopes. By your
world what is rightly reserved Holy Spirit fill our minds
for the new heaven and new with your truth and our
earth. The world’s treasures hearts with your peace.
quick­ly perish, spoil, and fade. In Jesus’ name we pray.
They are powerless to offer
Amen.
any lasting hope. All earthly
1 Peter 1:6-9; Romans 5:1-5 MONDAY, JUNE 6

ENDURING CHILDREN OF GOD

Trials . . . have come so that your faith—of greater worth than
gold . . . —may be proved genuine . . . . —1 Peter 1:6-7

I sometimes wish that faith and For one thing, trials point to
trials were mutually exclusive, God’s ultimate goal. The Bible
but the Bible refutes that idea. compares times of trial to a
“Trials . . . have come so that birthing process (Romans 8:22-
your faith . . . may be proved 24) that will celebrate new life
genuine and may result in and result in deliverance from
praise, glory and honor.” all the effects of evil. In addi-
tion, like an excellent jeweler,
Trials are sometimes self-inflict-
the Lord will bring his most
ed. For example, risky behavior
treasured possessions to jour-
often leads to sad conse­quences.
ney through the crucibles of fire
Sometimes trials are imposed
so that he and his truth will be
on us when someone wishes
his children’s priority.
to hurt or abuse us. Other tri-
als seem unavoidable. Terminal I still do not like trials. But one
cancer and cerebral palsy testify of the greatest miracles is that
that our world is groaning un- God uses them so that we can
der the weight of sin. When it grow, live, and hope in him.
comes to trials, the only ques-
tion is when and in what way
they will arrive. Lord, you see our trials
and the crises of faith they
In response, we can choose bit- often bring. Thank you for
terness or endurance. Bitterness loving us enough to help
makes trials more painful. The us endure the pain, mature
way of obedience involves in grace, and grow in hope
endurance that surrenders to through your Son. Amen.
God’s eternal grace. Why?
1 Peter 1:8-12 TUESDAY, JUNE 7

ASSURANCE-FILLED CHILDREN OF GOD

Concerning this salvation, the prophets . . . spoke of the grace that
was to come to you . . . . —1 Peter 1:10

Does God really love me as the Ultimately the prophets share

Bible says he does? Does my the joyful message that life and
life really matter much to God? hope are found in Christ alone.
Peter learned that the answer is The whole recorded drama of
yes (see John 13:34-35; 15:9- the Bible is for us! As a famil-
17; 21:15-17), and he under- iar song puts it, “Jesus loves me,
stood that others hunger for the this I know, for the Bible tells
same assurance. me so.”
The Bible is God’s grand story of Perhaps lingering sin or un-
assurance. It reveals God’s faith- healthy habits or questionable
fulness through the prophets, attitudes are eroding your as-
those bigger-than-life figures like surance of Christ’s love. Yet the
Abraham, Moses, David, and Bible says, “If God is for us, who
Isaiah. It also reveals God’s story can be against us?” (Romans
of deliverance for every individ- 8:31). Is there any better assur-
ual who turns to Jesus. The apos- ance than that?
tle Peter teaches this through his
discussion of the prophets.
Dear Lord, sometimes we
The prophets spoke a mes- wonder whether you love
sage of grace for each one of or are even interested in
us. They also searched—they us. When we doubt, grant
hungered to know how their us assurance; and when
words would be fulfilled in we feel lost, pour out
Christ. They also served. The your love, for Jesus’ sake.
Lord revealed to them that they Amen.
were servants of grace to us.
1 Peter 2:4-8 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8

AM I A CHILD OF GOD?
“See, I lay a stone in Zion . . . and the one who trusts in him will
never be put to shame.” —1 Peter 2:6

What a delight to be a child of whelmed with gratitude, and I

God! This delight is based in the want to live with him and for
fact that Jesus is my Savior and him every day.
my Brother. The Father wants all of us to be-
When I am overwhelmed with come his children, each one a
personal sin, the relentless at- “living stone” whose life, vision,
tack of guilt, or the fear of and purpose are clothed in Jesus
punishment, I focus on Jesus Christ. There is no such thing
my Savior. The Bible tells me as an “ego-driven Christian.”
that Jesus actually became sin Personal pride betrays the gospel
for me (2 Corinthians 5:21). and is ultimately doomed. One
Through his suffering and death becomes and lives as a child of
he removed my guilt and set God only through humble repen-
me free from condemnation tance, childlike trust, and com-
(Romans 8:1). Jesus is truly a plete surrender to Jesus Christ. If
friend of sinners like me. you want to be his child, you can
And when I face life’s daily pray in a way like this:
struggles, I focus on Jesus my
Brother. Jesus too experienced
Dear Lord, thank you for
temptation, betrayal, and loneli-
inviting me to be your
ness. Because he shared all of
life’s joy and pain, he is able to child. I repent of my sin,
and wants to help me. embrace Jesus as my
Savior, and surrender to
When I experience through your will. Thank you for
Jesus the Father’s uncompro- your amazing love! Amen.
mising love, I am simply over-
1 Peter 1:13-16 THURSDAY, JUNE 9

HOLY WITH AND LIKE HIM

It is written, “Be holy, because I am holy.”
 —1 Peter 1:16

A wise person once said, “You Father. God’s gift becomes

live in the presence of God; act our passion. The psalmist asks,
accordingly.” Those words cap- “How can those who are young
ture the essence of God’s will: keep their way pure?” And
to be holy in everything we do. God’s child willingly answers,
Unlike a life driven by endless “I seek you with all my heart;
do’s and don’ts, a holy life is do not let me stray from your
both a gift and a goal. commands. I have hidden your
word in my heart that I might
The Bible tells us much about
not sin against you” (Psalm
God’s holiness. The Bible prais-
119:9-11).
es God’s infinite holiness and
celebrates his steadfast love and God’s great love invites us to live
care, making clear that we owe in his holy presence. We show
the Lord all praise and honor. our love by joyfully embracing
God’s holiness sets us apart a life lived before God’s face.
from him and exposes our
Is this the wisdom of your life?
sin. But the Father has given
us Jesus, his Son, to set us free
from our guilt. God’s gift to us
is a holiness we receive through Father, thank you for the
faith in the Savior. Set apart by privilege to live in your
God for his service, we become presence. Make your ho-
“eager to do what is good” liness my passion and
(Titus 2:14). purpose. May I faithfully
imitate your character. In
Our goal then becomes holi- Jesus’ name, Amen.
ness, like that of our heavenly
1 Peter 1:17-21 FRIDAY, JUNE 10

HOLY BY GRACE
It was not with perishable things . . . that you were redeemed . . .
but with the precious blood of Christ. —1 Peter 1:18-19

For the child of God there is Grace teaches us to say no to

no greater privilege than to em- ungodliness and yes to living in
brace the lifestyle of holiness. reverent fear of God. Yet God’s
Why? Because the grace that commands are not burdens to
has redeemed us from death is be endured. Rather, like guard-
the same grace that equips us rails on a treacherous road, they
for life. are given to protect us from
danger and thus to equip us to
Grace has redeemed us from
enjoy true life (2 Peter 1:3-11).
“the empty way of life.” The
Grace invokes holiness so that
empty way of life can take
we are able to have life “to the
many forms: trusting in money
full” (see John 10:10).
for security, trusting in perfor-
mance religion to earn God’s fa- God equips us, in Christ, to be
vor, trusting in the goodness of holy in life. Is this the way you
people to build a better future. desire to live?
The truth, though, is that mon-
ey is temporary, performance
religion proves to be never
good enough, and people are
Dear Lord, I praise you for
unable to break themselves free
your gift of grace! Comfort
of sin. Both the grace of God
and history beg the question me with your deliverance
“Why place trust in what always and convict me to live the
comes up empty?” life of Christ! May you be
glorified in my every atti-
Grace renews our ability to tude and action. Amen.
live in the fullness of true life.
1 Peter 1:22-2:3 SATURDAY, JUNE 11

HOLINESS ACCORDING TO THE TRUTH

You have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperish­
able, through the living and enduring word of God.
 —1 Peter 1:23

Living well involves standards It makes clear, among other

that we can describe as faithful- things, God’s desire for mar-
ness and integrity. riage, parenting, racial equality,
and generous giving. Christians
A holy child of God lives by
live not according to personal
standards. He or she willingly
preference or cultural norm,
submits to “the living and en-
but instead they pray, “Preserve
during word of God.”
my life, Lord, according to your
God’s Word provides life. It is word” (Psalm 119:107).
like a seed that grows to be-
We are loved with God’s eternal
come a living tree. The roots
truth and graced with his daily
of this tree enable believers to
guidance. The critical question
endure every season and storm
is “Will that be our confidence
(see Psalm 1).
and compass?”
God’s Word is also the Spirit’s
CPR that revives hearts de-
pleted by the endless assaults
of sin and evil (see 2 Timothy
3:16-17). Lord, I love your Word.
Help me to read it care-
The purpose of God’s Word is fully and prayerfully.
always to nourish life and hope, May I gain understanding
inspiration and protection. from your precepts and
God’s Word is also light. It shines hate every wrong path. I
on our path to define the way we praise you for your Word.
should walk (Psalm 119:105). Amen.
Romans 12:1-2 SUNDAY, JUNE 12

A SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE
To God’s elect, exiles scattered . . . who have been chosen . . .
through the sanctifying work of the Spirit. . . . —1 Peter 1:1-2

Today is Pentecost Sunday. On Holiness must become our

this day when the Christian great pursuit. As we grow to lis-
church focuses on the outpour- ten to, learn from, and live by
ing of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2), God’s Word, we are being trans-
let’s reflect on Romans 12:1-2 formed by the Spirit. A genuine
and look again at the opening child of God is eager to hear his
verses of 1 Peter. voice, be clothed in his truth,
and live as one “able to test and
Christians are called to be chil-
approve what God’s will is.”
dren of God—and that means
being holy children of God. A We are often tempted to focus
holy lifestyle is the natural and on self-seeking opinions, feel-
joyful fruit of the “sanctifying ings, and personal comforts.
work of the Spirit.” But God’s children refuse to be
conformed to the world. They
What is holiness? Just as a me-
are simply committed to holi-
chanic realigns a car’s wheels so
ness, the sanctifying work of
it will drive safely on course, so
the Spirit. Are you following the
the Spirit realigns human lives
Spirit’s lead and living as a child
and hearts to walk the path of
of God?
true life. Followers of Jesus be-
gin to have different attitudes,
motives, and actions because Dear Lord, may your Spirit
the Spirit of God is working in equip me to live a life
them, making them more like pleasing to you! Enlighten
Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). my mind and direct my
path. In Jesus, Amen.
1 John 4:7-21 MONDAY, JUNE 13

HOLY LOVE
Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth . . .
love one another deeply, from the heart. —1 Peter 1:22

A child of God extends holy joy that Christ’s forgiveness has

Christlike love to others. The given us? Why not help a rest-
apostle John states, “Dear less heart find the peace that
friends, let us love one anoth- Christ’s acceptance achieved
er, for love comes from God. for us? Christlike love is always
Everyone who loves has been the fruit shown by those who
born of God and knows God.” sincerely obey God’s Word.
Holy love always seeks to be
Still, too many Christians have
a servant of God’s grace to all
treated others with a malicious
people.
spirit and slanderous speech.
Some prayerfully seek forgive- Let’s test ourselves by this truth:
ness for “honest mistakes” while “Whoever does not love does
holding on to grudges against not know God, because God
their perceived “enemies.” is love.” The credibility of the
Others demand empathy for words we speak is measured by
their own pain, but then they the life we live.
callously hurt people whom
they see as beneath them. Too
often the gift of undeserved Lord, “search me . . . and
grace is forgotten, and in its know my heart.” Forgive
place a self-righteousness rises my malicious and slan-
and brings harm to others. derous spirit. Give me
courage to love as Christ
What can Christians do instead?
loves, and to serve as he
Why not love with the patience
has served. In his name,
and kindness of Christ? Why
Amen.
not help others discover the
John 8:42-47 TUESDAY, JUNE 14

HOLINESS AND DECEPTION

Rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit . . . .
 —1 Peter 2:1

I heard this question recently: ors Satan, the “father of lies.”

“What will the ‘cultural autopsy’ Second, as habits of deception
of our generation show?” Could become more ingrained, we
it be that we have succumbed grow increasingly deaf to truth.
to a spirit of deception? If so, Finally, deception only produc-
how can we know? es casualties—such as the aban-
donment of personal integrity
In some ways deception is spiri-
or the betrayal of public trust
tual. For example, Jesus is treat-
that leaves a churning wake of
ed as one of many equally valid
shattered lives.
“gods.” Christianity is seen as
one of many valid religions. The Since the truth sets people
Bible is considered ill-suited to free (John 8:32), why engage
address issues that we face in in something that enslaves and
our culture today. leads to despair? Instead, let’s
follow “the way and the truth
Deception can also be personal.
and the life” (John 14:6).
For example, I have watched in
horror as people use lies and
deception to cover up personal
insecurities or get ahead at the Lord, you have taught
expense of others. It seems we that people who guard
expect and accept deception as their lips guard their life.
part of human life. Deliver me from a decep-
Why are God’s children com- tive heart and unclean lips
manded to rid themselves of so that I can testify to your
all deceit? First, deception hon- purpose and will. Amen.
Matthew 7:1-6 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

HOLINESS AND HYPOCRISY

Rid yourselves of all . . . hypocrisy . . . .
 —1 Peter 2:1

What would you think of a this when he said, “I do not do

pastor who routinely lied or a the good I want to do, but the
marriage counselor who had an evil I do not want to do—this I
extramarital affair? The word keep on doing” (Romans 7:19).
hypocrite would probably come
The critical difference between
to mind.
a struggling believer and a cal-
A hypocrite tries to project a loused hypocrite is desire.
personal image that is false. For Getting rid of hypocrisy means
example, a hypocrite can pre- developing a heart that grows
tend to live by moral principles to hate evil and “cling to what
while pursuing a lifestyle that is good” (Romans 12:9). God’s
defies the gospel. children live by this motto:
“Seek first his kingdom and his
The call to rid ourselves of
righteousness” (Matthew 6:33),
hypocrisy is an invitation to
in God’s strength, of course.
adopt a lifestyle consistent with
Christ-centered faith: “Clothe Is your desire consistent with
yourselves with the Lord Jesus God’s?
Christ, and do not think about
how to gratify the desires of the
sinful nature” (Romans 13:14). Lord, create a pure heart
and renew a steadfast
Who is a hypocrite? It could be
spirit within me. May your
any or all of us. Every honest
Christian struggles with incon- Spirit teach, counsel, and
sistencies between faith and life. direct me in your truth. In
The apostle Paul acknowledged Jesus’ name, Amen.
James 3:13-18 THURSDAY, JUNE 16

HOLINESS AND ENVY

Rid yourselves of all . . . envy . . . .
 —1 Peter 2:1

Are you frustrated that your than your neighbor? Would

family isn’t as refined as some your peers say you act as if the
others are? Are you disgusted universe revolves around you?
that you’ve driven the same car
Contentment is the cure for
for 15 years while your neigh-
envy! Through the extremes
bor enjoys the latest luxury vehi-
of poverty and hunger Paul
cle? If these or similar concerns
learned a timeless lesson: “I can
plague your soul, the sin of envy
do all this through him who
may be consuming you.
gives me strength” (Philippians
On the one hand, a desire for 4:13). Contentment finds value
the success that others have in God’s love rather than in hu-
seems harmless. Who doesn’t man achievement, and it finds
want some of life’s perks? But purpose in obedience rather
desire can easily become poi- than in trying to keep pace with
sonous envy when it begins to others. Only a life lived for God
resent the successes, luxuries, will deliver us from envy.
accomplishments, or any other
blessings of others. When envy
wins, everyone loses.
Lord, help me be content,
How do you know if you are whatever the circum-
envious? Does a spirit of discon- stances. Deliver me from
tent dominate your soul? Does envy, and by your Spirit
a spirit of coveting prevent you teach me to adopt your
from celebrating the Lord’s
thoughts and goals. In
goodness toward others? Do
Jesus’ name, Amen.
you ask God to bless you more
Ephesians 4:17-32 FRIDAY, JUNE 17

HOLINESS AND SLANDER

Rid yourselves of . . . slander of every kind.
 —1 Peter 2:1

The Bible declares that “the privately with words that have
tongue has the power of life the power of life. One historic
and death” (Proverbs 18:21). Christian confession states:
We have all experienced the “God’s will is that I never give
pain of someone twisting our false testimony against anyone”
words, turning our lives into and that “I should do what I
an object of gossip, or openly can to guard and advance my
defaming our name. We would neighbor’s good name.” I can-
much prefer to taste the joy not control another’s slander-
that comes through words of ous words. But I can choose to
encouragement. protect the integrity of all by us-
ing Christian speech.
Slander is the evidence of a ma-
licious spirit. It willfully misrep- “Those who guard their lips pre-
resents the truth. It defies Jesus’ serve their lives, but those who
teaching to treat others as we speak rashly will come to ruin”
would treat ourselves. It aims to (Proverbs 13:3). Will you com-
make ourselves look better than mit to holy speech?
others. Ultimately, to slander is
to share in the “native language”
of the father of lies, Satan. No
wonder the Bible says, “The Lord, I am a person of un-
Lord detests lying lips, but he clean lips; please cleanse
delights in people who are trust- me. May I speak encour-
worthy” (Proverbs 12:22). agement, not slander;
praises, not curses. Use my
The child of God, however,
lips for your glory. Amen.
commits to speak publicly and
1 Peter 2:4-8 SATURDAY, JUNE 18

HOLY SELF-EXAMINATION
I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about
what is evil. —Romans 16:19

An examined life honors the After crossing the Jordan River

call to holiness. on dry ground, the people of
Israel built a stone monument
I find two self-examination
as a lasting testament to the
questions particularly helpful.
life-changing power of grace
First, Who is my cornerstone? The (Joshua 4). For a living stone,
cornerstone was considered a the underlying self-examination
building’s most significant stone question is this: “Is my whole
because it defined the build- life a testament to the power of
ing’s orientation and design. In grace?”
order for a Christian to be a
Perhaps we should embrace
“living stone,” honoring God’s
the wisdom of Proverbs [Link]
design and oriented to his pur-
“Those who trust in themselves
pose, Jesus must be the “corner-
are fools, but those who walk in
stone.”
wisdom are kept safe.”
Second, Am I becoming a spiri-
tual house? Through his Spirit,
Jesus breathes life and vitality. I
may desire Christ as my corner-
Dear Lord, examine my
stone, but I must also open my heart, test my thoughts,
heart to his rehabilitation work. and expose my motiva-
I must choose to have a mind tions. Purify me so that
captive to him, an attitude root- more and more I will grow
ed in him, and a lifestyle mod- in your love and be trans-
eled after him. formed by your truth. In
Jesus’ name, Amen.
1 Peter 2:9-10 SUNDAY, JUNE 19

HOLY AND PRIVILEGED

You are a chosen people . . . that you may declare the praises of
him who called you out of darkness . . . . —1 Peter 2:9

I once had the privilege of eat- receive it and gratefully boast in

ing lunch with the governor of the One who gave it.
Illinois. I enjoyed the honor of
It is sad that many people think
the event and the conversation
of holiness as a list of suffocat-
we shared, and I even partici­
ing rules or as an unsatisfying
pated in a photo session before
way to earn God’s acceptance.
it all ended. But, as memorable
Some quit. Others judge. Many
as that was, it pales in compari-
are confused. All miss the grace
son to an even greater privilege.
that says “we are God’s handi-
A moment with a temporary work” (Ephesians 2:10). They
politician is soon over, but the miss the gratitude that delights
child of God lives in God’s in knowing that even the tiniest
presence forever through Jesus growth is an impressive testi-
Christ—“God with us.” I am mony to the Giver.
privileged to daily converse
Holiness earns nothing, but it
with him and to serve as his
sure says a lot about God’s gra-
representative. That is the es-
cious character!
sence of holiness—a life “set
apart” for Christ!
Lord, thank you for the
Holiness is God’s gift of grace to gift of holiness. From this
us. He declares that we are “a cho- day forward I will grate-
sen people, a royal priesthood, a fully declare your gracious
holy nation, God’s special posses- name. May my life be a
sion.” Holiness is also our gift of testimony to your glory.
gratitude to God. Overwhelmed In Jesus’ name, Amen.
by God’s generosity, I joyfully
1 Peter 2:11-12 MONDAY, JUNE 20

A LIVING CHILD OF GOD

Live such good lives . . . that . . . [people] may see your good deeds
and glorify God . . . . —1 Peter 2:12

What is God’s specific will for my ing opportunities for people to

life? Am I called to drive a truck meet the one true God? Do you
or build houses? Am I to be a want to be a plumber, using
physician or a physical therapist? your skills to provide solutions
Is my home to be in Amsterdam, for people’s hygienic needs?
Chicago, or Toronto? Those who Do you want to be a research
live for Jesus cannot escape such scientist, assisting us all to be
questions. greater servants of creation
care? Unlimited opportunities
In the Christian life there is no
are available through the gifts,
division between the sacred
talents, and resources God has
and the secular. In all we do,
provided in his world.
we are to be God’s holy chil-
dren. The world is God’s stage. Peter reminds us that our un-
We are privileged to partner in believing neighbors are reading
his drama of grace. God calls us our lives. So we want to take
to different roles in this ongo- this command seriously: “What­
ing drama. But each of us plays ever you do, whether in word
a part in demonstrating Christ’s or deed, do it all in the name
lordship over all of life. of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians
3:17).
We are given significant free-
dom to choose how or where
to serve him! Do you want to Lord, help me to commit
be a stay-at-home mom, devel- to live for you. May I seek
oping the values and vision of to live my life for your
godly children? Do you want glory always. Amen.
to be a church planter, provid-
1 Peter 2:13-17 TUESDAY, JUNE 21

CALLED TO SUBMISSION
Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority.
 —1 Peter 2:13

Are you willing to submit to freedom. The truth, though, is

people in authority over you? that God provides grace and
Your answer may reveal wheth- freedom through submission.
er you are content to live as one Sin compels a person to live
of God’s chosen people in the in an ever-shrinking universe
world. called “me.” Submission is the
grace that frees us from sin’s
The Bible teaches that submis-
personal blinders by calling us
sion is the appropriate demean-
to live within a community.
or for God’s children. In his writ-
The kingdom gospel is a world-
ings Peter teaches that the child
embracing gospel, and I am to
of God is to submit to “every
accept my civic responsibility in
authority,” whether in govern-
order to give expression to it.
ment, in employment, in mar-
riage, in community, or in the So “submit yourselves for the
church. These examples make Lord’s sake to every human
a critical point. Since the Lord ­authority.”
instituted authorities, to disobey
them is to disobey him.
Dear Lord, by your Holy
What does it mean to submit? Spirit give me courage
Like a car yielding to the flow to exercise the privilege
of traffic, submission means of submission—to you,
blending into the flow of God’s your Word, your call, and
kingdom work. It sounds simple to all authority that you
enough, but most of us dislike have established. In Jesus’
the idea of submitting. Some name, Amen.
even suggest it is the enemy of
1 Peter 2:13-14; Romans 13:1-7 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22

LIVING UNDER AUTHORITY

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities.
 —Romans 13:1

Living as God’s people may Peter’s instructions were given

come out most dramatically in to a church persecuted by
the world of politics. We need the Roman emperor Nero.
to know there are at least two Christians are not obligated
God-given reasons to sub­mit to to obey laws that call for dis-
governing authorities. obedience to God (see Acts
5:29). However, Christians are
First, we submit “for the Lord’s
not free to repay evil with evil
sake.” Christians affirm that gov-
(see Romans 12:17-21). Since
ernment has a limited scope,
all people bear God’s image,
yet they recognize it may be
believers in Christ accept the
used to advance God’s glory,
responsibility to seek, pray for,
for the Lord often chooses to
and serve the good of society.
work through government for
the benefit of all people. Who knows how the Lord will
use us when we honor his ap-
Second, we submit for society’s
pointed authorities?
sake. Government’s role is to
build and protect a good and
just society for all. Establishing
speed limits, for example, is a Lord, thank you for the
wise safety practice for every­one. freedom I have in Christ
And obedience even to laws that to do good in my com-
we find less than ideal helps to munity. Bless our leaders
establish a stable society. with a sense of justice and
Of course, there is an author- good for all people. For
ity above that of government. Jesus’ sake, Amen.
1 Peter 2:18-25 THURSDAY, JUNE 23

LIVING AND SUFFERING

It is commendable if you bear up under the pain of unjust suffer-
ing because you are conscious of God. —1 Peter 2:19

“The pain of unjust suffering” in- without grace is legalism void

flicted by “those who are harsh” of hope.
is a common experience. It may
The Christian faith is realistic:
be the pain of a difficult fam-
“In this world you will have
ily relationship, bullying in the
trouble” (John 16:33). But as
work place, or, as in Peter’s day,
we deal with suffering and seek
slavery. It may also be caused
justice for all, we guard against
by lies and deception, gossip
either promoting ourselves or
and slander, or neglect and self-
pitying ourselves. Whatever we
interest.
do, it should bring honor and
How should the child of God glory to God (1 Corinthians
respond? According to the 10:31; Colossians 3:17).
Bible, Christ’s own experience
No one has suffered greater in-
of suffering is our example!
justice than Jesus. That is why
Jesus exercised integrity by re- he is also our only hope.
fusing to answer evil with evil.
Payback is really only a form
of reverse injustice, so it only Lord, forgive me for the
makes suffering worse. Jesus sins I have committed
also exercised patient hope by against others, and help
entrusting himself “to him who me to endure unjust suf-
judges justly.” Finally, Jesus exer- fering by following the
cised grace by bearing the pun- example of Christ, my
ishment for human sin in order Lord and my hope. In his
to make forgiveness available name, Amen.
for all. The truth is that justice
1 Peter 3:1-7 FRIDAY, JUNE 24

LIVING MARRIAGE
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
 —Ephesians 5:21

Much has been said about the the joy of permanence. Finally,
“crisis of marriage.” Same-sex a couple’s uncompromising love
unions, adultery, co-habitation, and faithfulness serve as a living
and pornography all challenge example of God’s generous love
God’s design of marriage as a that is able to win over others.
one man, one woman union
The “crisis of marriage” will be
defined by loyalty and fidelity.
solved when couples coura-
The solution is found in the geously “submit to one another
faithful practice of mutual sub- out of reverence for Christ.” In
mission. Whether the chosen fact, marriages rooted in and
phrase is “submit yourselves” or reflective of his loyalty, fidelity,
“be considerate,” the key quali- and permanence are necessary
fier is “in the same way.” God for a society to be healthy!
calls husbands and wives to imi-
What is the story told by your
tate Christ by living as sacrificial
marriage?
servants to one another. How?
First, a Christian couple lives in
reverence for the Lord. God,
not humanity, created marriage. Lord, we praise you for
God’s will, not our own, is to be your constant faithfulness
honored in it. Next, couples are and love in Jesus Christ.
to embrace the inner beauty of Help us to imitate your
Christ-centered purity and re- love in marriage and in
spect. Such character builds trust all other relationships. In
and security, deepens commit- Jesus’ name, Amen.
ment and fidelity, and ensures
1 Peter 3:8-14 SATURDAY, JUNE 25

LIVING WITH OTHERS

All of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be
compassionate and humble. —1 Peter 3:8

Perhaps you identify with this with insult.” Finally, we are to

statement, as I do: “I don’t mind trust the ways of Christ. Peter
Jesus; it’s his friends that drive asks, “Who is going to harm you
me crazy.” if you are eager to do good?”
Even if some do us harm, at
Who are Jesus’ friends? They are
least we have been faithful to
Republicans and Democrats,
the proven ways of God.
strong-willed employers and
lazy employees, adulterous We cannot control the insecuri-
wives and unfaithful husbands, ties or idiosyncrasies of others,
self-important leaders and fickle and we should not fuel their
followers. Like you and me, fires of disharmony. Why not
they are consistently imperfect. control our speech and actions,
and trust God to deal with the
How is it possible to be sympa-
actions of others?
thetic and compassionate while
living with the sharp edges of
another’s flaws? The words
truth, test and trust may help.
The truth is that we are to love Lord, I thank you for your
as Christ has loved, extend- forgiveness of my sin, and
ing to others the very grace for your endless patience
we receive from him. The with my flaws and weak-
test is whether our actions are nesses. Help me to share
Christlike. Even an appeal to with others the grace I
pure motives is not an excuse have received from you.
to “repay evil with evil or insult Amen.
1 Peter 3:13-22 SUNDAY, JUNE 26

LIVING WITNESS
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you
to give the reason for the hope that you have. —1 Peter 3:15

The Christian’s great privilege is it free from the dehumanizing

to be a living witness of Jesus effects of sin and evil. In fact,
Christ! But each of us must ask, judgment involves his care and
“Why would I ‘revere Christ as cleansing that invites all to live
Lord’ and place hope in him?” in the full beauty and blessing
of true life!
Here are my reasons.
Some may resist or ridicule our
First, consider Christ’s care over
witness to Christ as the world’s
us, his children. The gentleness
one true hope. That alone is
and respect I am called to ex-
reason to “always be prepared.”
ercise is itself a testimony of
Is there any better answer than
Jesus. When he saw crowds,
to share him who is able to
he was filled with compassion
help us because he suffered the
(Matthew 9:36).
same betrayal, abuse, tempta-
Second, consider Christ’s cleans­ tions, and fear we daily experi-
ing. Just as the flood in Noah’s ence (Hebrews 2:17-18; 4:15)?
day sym­bolized the cleans-
Are you a prepared witness?
ing and re­newal of creation
(Genesis 6-9), baptism in Christ
symbolizes the cleansing and re- Lord Jesus, equip us to be
newal of life through his death living witnesses for you.
and resurrection (Romans 6:1- Help us to care as you
11). Christ’s caring forgiveness cared, to forgive as you
renews life and stirs hope. forgave, and to wisely
hope in your return. In
Finally, consider Christ’s call. He your name, Amen.
rules all creation and will set
1 Peter 4 MONDAY, JUNE 27

LIVING FAITHFULLY
They do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human
desires, but rather for the will of God. —1 Peter 4:2

I met with a prayer circle that in- chil­­dren trust him who will
cluded a converted Muslim. His judge justly.
decision to follow Jesus resulted in • God’s encouragement: En­
being disowned by family, threats cour­aged by the Lord’s faith-
to his spouse, and fear of physical fulness, Christians serve to
harm. Even so, because “the end encourage fellow believers in
of all things is near,” he resolved their struggles.
to live “for the will of God.” • God’s glory: Rejoicing in sal-
vation, believers accept suf-
Faith can face painful ­challenges.
fering as the birthing room
But because the Lord “set
for God’s glory to be fully
eter­nity in the human heart”
revealed.
(Ecclesiastes 3:11), Peter articu-
lates reasons for faithful living: Christians will continue to en-
counter pressure to disobey
• God’s Son: Armed with God. Yet they refuse to be
Christ’s attitude, believers blinded by circumstances and
focus on eternal hope rather to live only for the moment.
than temporary pain. Instead, they live for Christ and
• God’s deliverance: Christians his return!
celebrate freedom from de-
bilitating desires and the Lord, when we are weary
self-abuse of disobedience to of attacks on our faith,
God’s will. strengthen us with eternal
• God’s judgment: Content vision, encourage us with
that the Lord makes “every- grace, and surround us
thing beautiful in its time”
with love. Amen.
(Ecclesiastes 3:11), God’s
1 Peter 5:1-7 TUESDAY, JUNE 28

EQUIPPED IN THE CALL

Humble yourselves . . . under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift
you up in due time. —1 Peter 5:6

We expect children to grow sonal struggles, and a teacher to

from childhood to adolescence show wisdom’s path.
to adulthood in order to live
This is possible only when God’s
productive lives. The same is
Word and Son remain the
true in our spiritual lives. God’s
church’s foundation and focus.
children, born of the Spirit, are
But leaders sometimes abdicate
called to grow out of spiritual
their call by protecting the status
infancy into Christlike maturity
quo ­under the guise of peace and
(see Ephesians 4:11-16).
unity. And congregations some-
The church of Christ exists for times resist leadership, especially
that very reason. Through it, when selfish pride feels threat-
God provides growth and guid- ened by the demands of grace.
ance for his children.
Our lives flourish when we are
The church needs leaders who in communities of grace where
model God’s call in Christ and Christ is honored and his Word
are willing to serve the body of is obeyed. If you are not part of
Christ sacrificially. The church a church community, commit
also needs members willing to to finding a place where you
honor its leaders, and to accept can grow with others.
encouragement and guidance
from those whom God has ap- Lord, guide your church
pointed to servant leadership. to grow in grace, to be
God knows we cannot live in clothed in holiness, and to
isolation. We need a voice of
live daily for your glory. In
assurance in times of doubt, a
Jesus, Amen.
confidant to enter into our per-
1 Peter 5:8-11 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29

VIGILANT IN HIS CALL

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around
like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. —1 Peter 5:8

Every serious-minded child truth. We must accept God’s

of God identifies with Peter’s Word, take it into our heart, and
struggle for spiritual consistency. obey its commands.
Bold to declare his allegiance
We must also listen to advice.
to Jesus, Peter was also quick
By seeking the guidance of
to sell out his commitment
trusted, seasoned believers, we
under pressure (Mark 14:29-
learn from the experience of
31, 66-72). Paul describes our
others and tap into their God-
dilemma: “Although I want to
given wisdom and insight.
do good, evil is right there with
me” (Romans 7:21). Also we must live in prayer. We
daily humble ourselves before
The truth is that where the Lord
God, confessing our sins and
works, Satan “prowls around
seeking his guidance.
like a roaring lion looking for
someone to devour.” Jesus Satan is on the prowl. But we
announces free forgiveness, need not fear. God’s grace
yet Satan makes us question equips us to be vigilant and to
whether we are worth saving. stand firm in him.
When truth is declared, Satan
questions the Bible’s reliability.
Where a spouse is loyal, Satan Lord, I know I am your
entices infidelity. Satan is com- child, but I am often
mitted to derailing God’s work. ­assaulted by the evil one.
Protect me from tempta-
So we are called to “be alert tion and write your truth
and of sober mind.” How? First on my heart. Amen.
of all, we need to learn God’s
1 Peter 5:12-14 THURSDAY, JUNE 30

CALLED TO GRACE
I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that
this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it. —1 Peter 5:12

John Newton’s hymn “Amazing I don’t want a gospel that says,

Grace” is a favorite of many “Earn salvation for yourself.” I
people. We all hunger for the don’t want a religion in which
grace that “saved a wretch obedience is motivated by fear
like me,” assures us of safety to appease some “wrath of the
“through many dangers, toils, gods.” I don’t want a faith that’s
and snares,” and builds our con- uncertain about the future.
fidence that grace “will lead [us]
I want true grace—the unmer-
home.”
ited favor of him who calls me
Today’s text invites us to “stand out of darkness, who clothes
fast” in the “true grace of God.” me in holiness, who gives me
Only you can decide whether confidence that his kingdom
God’s grace is merely a favor- will never end. And I receive
ite song or a conviction of the that grace with confidence, for
heart in which you will coura- I know that God gives it as his
geously stand. gift! I hope you know it too!
Is there any other gospel that de-
clares that I am God’s precious
child born by grace? Is there any Dear Lord, as your child
other religion that clothes me in I love you; as your holy
holiness as a gift of divine love? child I obey you; and as
Is there any ­other faith that al- your living child I give tes-
lows me to live confidently and timony to your grace and
without fear of the future? The glory by living your call. In
answer is a resounding no. Jesus, Amen.