The Power of a Story:
Making Jesus Lord

Scripture Reading:  1 Thessalonians 5:23-24

Key Verse: 1 Peter 3:15

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect

The final chapter of the Gospel story is how we live out the rest of our lives in the new relationship with Christ.  After we recognize we are sinners, that Jesus died for sinners, and that we must confess and believe in Jesus, now we must live differently!  It won’t be long until we recognize the battles of the flesh.  The zeal of our newfound faith can diminish as we face the devil’s temptations to go back to the world’s values.  We will come to the crossroads at some point in our journey with God.  This calls for a decision: Who is going to rule your life?

The Bible makes it clear that God wants to sanctify us who have believed in Jesus.  To be sanctified is to be set aside for His sacred purposes.  It is that point that the Apostle Peter speaks of in our printed key verse for today: Setting aside Jesus as Lord.  Who is going to be your master: Your flesh or your Savior?  Is Jesus in you going to rule you?  When tempted by sin, who is going to win: Your flesh or Jesus?  This battle must be settled once and for all!  Are you going to be entirely sanctified? Entirely given to the rule of God’s Spirit, or will the flesh be given power?

It is true that after this big yes to God, there will be need for many more yeses to God.  But it starts with your decision that you want and give permission to God to reign supremely in your life.

Father, I present my body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to you.  I will not grieve your spirit in me; you are Lord of my life.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.