http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/sermons/how-aliens-keep-the-identity-of-their-homeland
1 Peter was were I was led to this morning. How funny God is at times. He always provides exactly what you need, when you need it, even if it's not easy or comfortable to hear or taste.
Conclusion from the first sermon:
I speak to believers this morning to establish your hearts in the truth. God wants you to know today that none of the hardships you undergo as aliens and exiles in this world is a surprise to God. He has chosen you for this. It is part of your purifying discipline. Your troubles as an exile here are not absurd, meaningless results of your own shortsighted, fallible choices. They are the loving plan and wisdom of God's all-seeing, infallible choice. Your exile life is rooted in God. You are engulfed in the electing love of God the Father, God the Spirit and God the Son. Your life is from him and through him and for him. Dwell on this truth. Let it sink in and touch the deepest core of your identity. God the Father has chosen you. The Holy Spirit is sanctifying you.
Summary from the second sermon:
So there they are. Four strategies to keep your alien identity in tact:
- sobriety for prayer;
- fervency of love;
- opening your home cheerfully;
- and letting the grace of God flow through your gift to others
Karri
For more Bible study options - Here is one website to check out: http://www.preceptaustin.org/
These are great truths, Karri. Thanks for sharing from you Bible study. You are an encouragement.
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