As an immature new Christian, I wanted to make sure other Christians saw me doing Christian things. My identity was more in the approval of Christians than from my acceptance in Christ. Looking back, embarrassingly so — I remember dining in a restaurant with my family and proudly asking a blessing when the food was served to our table. But, between the time I said “Amen”, and before all six of us ate our first bite — a Christian couple we knew walked in for lunch. Not to be seen ungrateful or shy about public praying — I told our family we would pray again, and we did!

 

Peter addresses this performance trap of fear and distrust, where the flesh strives exhausted — contrasted with confidence energized by the Spirit where personal worth is valued by how God defines His child. “A chosen people” means all races who bow to belief in Christ are accepted and beloved by their heavenly Father. “A royal priesthood” elevates believers as priests with direct access to King Jesus. Those who praise the name of Almighty God are possessed by God — so no enemy can reframe a Christian’s identity. We are called from darkness to walk in His wonderful light.

 

Are you driven by your performance in the flesh, or are you led by your acceptance in the Spirit? Do you value your personal worth in Christ’s currency or by the world’s appraisal of you? God has delivered you from the darkness of basing your worthiness on works and man’s approval to the light of His love and mercy. His grace is at work in you to complete the works He has called you to do — yes; it is the Spirit’s power in you, through you and with you.

 

Love laid down His life for you, because He personally prized your personal worth. Just as astounding — the resurrected Christ lives in you, loves you and cherishes you — His creation. Whatever Jesus is worth is what you are worth — He is your life.