We continue our thinking of last week as we begin to at the transformation of our lives through God’s grace.

Paul wants people to think of their lives as sacrifices.  A reflection of Jesus’ sacrifice.  By doing so, we reflect our love to the Father.  That our lives can be seen as holy and pleasing to God.  And while we think of living a sacrificial, holy, and pleasing life, we probably can think of areas were we have fallen short.  But, it is the realization of failure, and then desire to leave those issues and move towards righteousness.  That is living in the transformation.

But then we are warned of the worlds influence.  That there are all sorts of things that will try to conform us.  Whether it is the newest self-help book or inspirational speaker on television, we must not allow this world to take us out of our relationship with God.  But the truth of Jesus Christ will transform us out of this world and into God’s righteousness.

So as we continue next week in our study of 1 Peter, please keep in mind the areas of being “self-controlled”, breaking down the strongholds of fear, and living in the transforming power of God through Jesus.

12:1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. (ESV)

2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (ESV)