Devotional - September 23, 2026
Scripture: 1 Peter 2: 9-10 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
It is interesting to watch people when others give them compliments. Some almost shut-down, they start looking around, fidgeting, and you can tell they are uncomfortable. Others respond in a way that almost seems rehearsed. They thank the one who is talking and make a few comments about their success being a team effort. Then, there are some who say, oh go on... And they mean it, keep going, keep telling them and others how great they are while they bask in it. I think, to some extent, everyone enjoys being recognized for their hard work. Everyone likes to hear good things about themselves. Unfortunately, I don't think it happens enough. People look for it from others, even if they don't admit it, but are reluctant to offer it. In todays Scripture, Peter, on behalf of God, is reminding the reader who they are to God. Those who are in Christ, who live the Christian life, are chosen and holy people, beloved by God (Deuteronomy 7:6). You are a priesthood. God relates to others through you. You are the ones who know about God and intercede for others with God. At one time, you were not, but God came to you (Luke 19:10, Colossians 1:13), with a merciful heart (Lamentations 3:22-23, Ephesians 2: 3-6), and invited you into the Kingdom of God through Christ. You are God's special possession. Be it corporately, as the Body of Christ in the world, the church, or individually, God grants us this special status. Avoid confusing this condition with favoritism, that is different, we are special in God's eyes. If you try to define the word special, good luck. When you look it up, it defies being defined exactly. It is something you experience more on an intuitive level. However you understand the term, you get the idea and that is what the church, and you, are to God. Sometimes, just knowing that can help you better understand yourself and who you are in the world. Yes, you will have bad days. You will fail or stumble through some very trying times. But know this, Your status with God is not diminished (Ephesians 2:8). So, brush yourself off, learn, and keep going in the fullness of your faith. God loves you!
Pray with me..., Holy God we take this moment to simply receive Your love for us. We know of our short-comings, the areas in our life that need work, but thank You Lord, for just being You. Hear us as we pray for our loved ones. We ask Your blessing upon them and we pray for our church. Bless us O God, so we can be the people You call us to be, in Jesus' name, Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
