1 Peter 1:14 - Living as Obedient Children
Introduction
As believers, we are called to live a life that honors God and reflects His character. In 1 Peter 1:14, the apostle Peter reminds us of the importance of living as obedient children of God. In this passage, Peter encourages us to live a life that is pleasing to God, and to avoid the temptations of the world.
The Command to be Obedient
"As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance." (1 Peter 1:14, NIV)
In this verse, Peter reminds us that as children of God, we are called to be obedient to His will. We are no longer slaves to our sinful nature, but rather we are free to live a life that is pleasing to God. This means that we must conform to God's standards, rather than conforming to the evil desires of our former way of life.
The Reason for Obedience
"But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" (1 Peter 1:15-16, NIV)
So why must we strive to be obedient? The reason is simple: God is holy, and He calls us to be holy as well. As believers, we are called to reflect God's character, and to live a life that is pleasing to Him. This means that we must strive to be holy in all that we do, just as God is holy.
The Temptation to Conform
"Do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance..." (1 Peter 1:14, NIV)
The temptation to conform to the world is real. As believers, we are constantly bombarded with messages from the world that seek to draw us away from God's will. But as obedient children of God, we must resist these temptations and instead choose to conform to God's standards.
Conclusion
Living as obedient children of God is not easy, but it is necessary. As believers, we are called to reflect God's character and to live a life that is pleasing to Him. Let us strive to be holy in all that we do, and let us resist the temptations of the world. May we live a life that honors God, and may we be obedient to His will.
