Visible Living

As you come to him, the living Stone--rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him--you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame." 1 Peter 2:4-6

Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. 1 Peter 2:12 NIV

They're watching. I ususally don't think about what people might see me do. At least this verse inplies that those who don't believe are watching what we do. All the co-workers, neighbors, students, children and anyone else who is around us are watching.

I fail. The Isrealites failed miserably, too. How often we don't do as we should. Yet our Heavenly Father loves us. He forgives us. He sent his son to die on the cross for us. Therefore, we are to live thankful lives filled with gratitude and service unto him.

It isn't all that difficult to watch what we say. We just have to make a point to do so. It is possible to control our body language. We can certainly keep from rolling our eyes, giving deep sighs or making rude gestures in our times of frustration. What are we to do when we are frustrated? Hmmm. What did you say?

I hope you said pray. We are to pray. We are to never stop praying. When we find ourselves stuck in traffic or being cut off in lines. When people talk bad about each other or if people take things that are yours. Send all your woes to God's ear in prayer. Ask for strength and patience.

We are to strive to bear fruit. Remember Galations 5:22 "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control". We are to conduct ourselves in these ways in all times. Through times of peace and times of trouble.

We may not be visibly winning souls for Christ. We may not see who is watching. We might not know who we are influencing. Seek help from the spirit to improve our conduct. Therefore, we will bring glory to God on the day He visits us. What a beautiful day that will be. Let's live for Him. Keep ourselves in check so we are visible examples of Christ in our world.

Dear Lord,
You are in total control of our lives. You set us where you desire for us to be. You place us where we are able to be used by you. We are your people and you are our God may we be vessels of love and mercy to others. Grant us the ability to do as you ask. To live lives that are honorable. To act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbily with you. Keep us focused on you through prayer and to never stop praying for others. Deepen the walk of your followers. In the name of Christ Jesus, Amen.