Scripture
You are not forgotten, for you have been chosen and destined by the Father God. The Holy Spirit has set you apart to be God’s holy ones, obedient followers of Jesus Christ who have been gloriously sprinkled with his blood. -1 Peter 1:2
There are moments in our lives where circumstances become so cumbersome that we wonder if God is with us. “God, do you see this situation? Do you see how I am being treated?” This verse is a reminder that you are not alone, nor are you forgotten in your salvation experience. This is an admonishment to stay the course because of the work of the Trinity in your life. All that you are experiencing, Beloved is meant to lead you to a deeper place of submission to Jesus. God’s foreknowledge and election of you is partly based on His prior knowledge of your response to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Your willful sanctification and obedience through the Holy Spirit are evidence that you have been chosen. We have been set apart for obedience to Jesus, and because we can’t do this in our own strength, His blood cleanses us. Therefore, submission to Jesus is a result of God’s work through Jesus’ sacrifice. We have been chosen for submission.
So, what does submission to Jesus look like in the life of the believer? It’s acknowledging His authority. We recognize that Jesus is Lord over our lives and submit to His authority. We cannot wield His authority if we refuse to submit to it. We no longer rely on our understanding, but on His wisdom. Submission to Jesus involves our willingness to obey His teachings and aptly apply them to our lives. It also looks like surrender. We let go of our desires, ambitions, and plans and lay them at His feet. We trust that He will guide our lives in the direction God has ordained. Submission to Jesus looks like walking humbly before Him, recognizing our need for His strength and guidance instead of self-reliance. It’s trusting His love and power, and it involves our personal sacrifice. Jesus trusted God completely and He sacrificed unto death. He serves as the ultimate example for us.
Ultimately, Beloved, the end goal of submission to Jesus leads us to personal transformation. We are being renewed to be more like Him. As we’re submitting to Him, our old thought patterns, habits, behaviors, and attitudes are disappearing. We’re taking on His nature and characteristics. We become what we gaze upon, Beloved. Be encouraged today, you’re in the middle of the process. You are not forgotten nor are you forsaken. You’re being transformed.
Prayer
Father, we thank you for the reminder that we are not forgotten, we’re just being processed for transformation. Give us strength to continue this journey. In Jesus’ name. Amen
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