We have been chosen by God!

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, that you should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9 KJV).

The Challenge of the Chosen! 

While reading this verse, I was struck initially by the honor God has placed on us by choosing us and bestowing royalty upon. To be chosen by God! And to be known as His own special people! Wow! I’m speechless! But the chosen must meet the challenge of being chosen! And what is the challenge of the chosen?

In plain and simple language, it is our responsibility to represent the Kingdom at all times! The Kingdom of God!! How do we do that?  First, we must accept the fact that we are peculiar, “a peculiar people.”  No, not strange or queer– well, we may be a little odd to the world, but our peculiarity only means that we are God’s very own carefully selected special people!

Next, we must fulfill our assignment to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ, “shew forth the praises of him.” Share the gospel! Don’t keep it to yourself. Proclaiming the gospel is not about how well we speak, how many degrees we earn, or how zealous we may be.  Rather, it is how loving and kind we are that matters most in representing the Kingdom.  Frederick William Faber, the English hymnwriter, stated it succinctly, “Kindness has converted more sinners than zeal, eloquence, or learning.”

Finally, we are challenged to practice holiness, be holy, “a holy nation.” We have been called “out of darkness into his marvelous light.” Therefore, we don’t do the same things sinners do. We have been called out of partying at the clubs, promiscuity, cussing, etc. and/or just being mean and unfriendly. Nor should we set ourselves up above others like Pharisees.

The challenge of the chosen then is to represent the Kingdom of God by being His peculiar or very specially selected people who wholeheartedly proclaim the gospel with love and kindness, show forth His praises, and proudly accept the call to be a holy nation. 

Focus Quote: “You will be my possession, chosen from all nations. Even though the whole earth is mine, you will be my kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”   

Please click the link below to see how to obtain copies of my book, Standing on the Promises: Defeating Fear and Breaking Barriers altonesumner.com – an inspiring motivational ministry. Please continue to join us at 5:14 p.m. each day as we pause to pray. 

Dr. Alton E. Sumner(301) 921-6060