In what ways can we live as "saints of the Most High" now? The Anchor Verse “But the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and possess it forever—yes, forever and ever.” (Daniel 7:18) Our Identity to Embrace • We are already called “saints”—set-apart ones, not future candidates (1 Corinthians 1:2). • Christ’s finished work makes that title possible; we live from acceptance, not for it (Ephesians 2:8-10). • Knowing who we are fuels how we act (1 Peter 2:9-10). Holiness in Everyday Choices • Present your bodies “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). • Reject conformity to the world’s mold; renew the mind through Scripture (Romans 12:2). • Put off the old self and “put on the new self” created to be like God in true righteousness (Ephesians 4:22-24). Practical snapshots – Entertainment: filter it by Philippians 4:8. – Speech: trade coarse talk for grace-filled words (Ephesians 4:29). – Time: schedule around kingdom priorities first (Matthew 6:33). Love That Mirrors the King • “Walk in love, just as Christ loved us” (Ephesians 5:2). • Forgive as we’ve been forgiven (Colossians 3:13). • Pursue unity; maintain “the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). Everyday expressions – Listening before speaking (James 1:19). – Serving unseen needs at church or in the neighborhood (Galatians 5:13). – Giving generously and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). Kingdom Witness in a Watching World • “You are the salt of the earth…you are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14). • Live “above reproach…shining like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:15-16). Practical avenues – Consistent integrity at work (Colossians 3:23). – Hospitality that opens doors for the gospel (1 Peter 4:9-10). – Gentle defense of faith when asked (1 Peter 3:15). Faithful Service with Spiritual Gifts • Each saint has a Spirit-given role in the body (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). • Use gifts “for the common good” and God’s glory (1 Peter 4:10-11). Steps forward – Identify gifts through prayerful experimentation. – Plug into a local church ministry. – Encourage others into their callings (Hebrews 10:24). Vigilance in Spiritual Battle • “Put on the full armor of God” to stand against schemes (Ephesians 6:10-18). • Resist the devil, firm in faith (1 Peter 5:8-9). Daily practice – Start the morning fastening truth and righteousness. – Pray throughout the day in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18). – Memorize Scripture for instant defense (Psalm 119:11). Enduring Hope that Shapes Today • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). • Encourage one another with the certainty of Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). • Hope fuels perseverance under trial (Romans 5:3-5). Living It Out Saints of the Most High already possess an unshakable kingdom. Grounded in identity, marked by holiness and love, serving in giftedness, staying battle-ready, and anchored in hope, we display heaven’s reality on earth—today, tomorrow, and until the King appears. |
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