In Abundance

"Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance."

— 1 Peter 1:1-2

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

All I've read so far in this letter from the Apostle Peter is his greeting. Yet, there is so much truth about who we are as believers in you today. Like the recipients of his letter, we too are your elect, exiles scattered. We are temporary residents in a foreign land, sojourners and travelers, who live in constant awareness of our true home, Heaven.

As God's elect, I have been chosen by God for His particular and unique time, place, and purpose with His foreknowledge—not randomly placed here, but with God's prior knowledge, His omniscience, knowing my response to the Gospel and His plan for the entirety of my life.

Through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, I am being made new in order to be obedient to you, Lord Jesus. This inside-out change is being done in me through the Holy Spirit for obedience to you, Jesus, by the sprinkling of your blood to be cleansed from my corruption and sin. All of which was accomplished through your work on the cross. In this greeting, I see the fullness of God clearly on display: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. All three persons of the Godhead in intimate relationship working together to bring me to salvation, sanctification, and obedience.

Peter's greeting closes with "Grace and peace be yours in abundance." Grace (charis) is getting what I don't deserve. Peace (eirene/shalom) is the tranquility of soul, fearing nothing, content no matter what comes. Abundance (plethyno) is 'multiplied into the fullest measure'. I believe this is not just Peter's desire for the scattered churches, but your desire for me today—grace and peace in the fullest measure.

Lord Jesus, today I receive Your multiplied abundant grace and peace for my life. Thank You for choosing me to live in this day and place and calling me for Your purpose in advance. May I be obedient to You as an exile in this foreign land until the day You call me to my true home.

— In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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