From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

1 Peter 2:9, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."

Yesterday, we talked about Jesus being our mediator and the great privilege He procured for us of being able to be in God's presence. I would hope that you would take some time and step away from the rat race for a momentary, restful break with Jesus and fully meditate on that and the Scripture noted. You are a chosen people. God is not up there using us as a cosmic ring-toss game where some are lucky enough to get the ring around their neck – no way – it is not by chance but by choice that you belong to Him. It is both His choice as a call to you and your choice to respond Him. "Chosen" – makes me feel all warm and fuzzy!

You are a royal priest and part of a holy nation. No more identity crisis here. You belong to God, with others, who are a functioning group of vibrant and lively royalty. Step up to the plate with purpose and vision. God is in you to make this all work together for good.

And no more wondering what your purpose in life is. You are chosen to declare the praises of God because He called you out of your foolish darkness and into His marvelous light.

Wow – now you know who you are, why you're here and what you have to do. What a God we serve! Go get ‘em, Tiger. Endure the fire...it's producing pure gold!

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