1 Peter 1:13-16

Therefore, prepare your mind for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.  As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.  But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” 

With knowledge comes responsibility. As long as we are ignorant of what Christ has done for us on the cross we can live with worldly desires dominating our life. But, once we understand the concepts of grace, mercy and forgiveness, that changes. A life of holiness becomes our goal.

I don’t want the prodigal to continue to live in ignorance. I’m praying that these three things will soon be established in our prodigal’s lives as they move toward holiness:

“A mind prepared for action” – Knowing what His Word says, is one way to prepare the mind. God’s love for us is active, thus we need to actively love Him and the world.  It will take different forms for each of our prodigals (and us) but it will be vital in days ahead that we be prepared to act when God speaks.

“Self-control” – This is one of the most difficult things to do as a passionate lover of Christ. We must control our desires but also control our emotions. May love always win in our contact with non-believers!

“Hope set fully on the grace to be given them” – Where will the prodigal set their hope… in their job?… retirement?… husband/wife?… assets?… political figures?… the church? They must set their hope on Christ alone and His grace that will be revealed when they stand before Him. As believers we will spend eternity in His grace.

1 Peter 1:13-16

Therefore, ________ , prepare your mind for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As an obedient child, _______ , do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy _______ , in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”