TOV 24-153 Walking in Obedience: The Sanctification Challenge

Welcome, fellow warriors of The Tribe Of Valor! Today, we gather around a fundamental yet profound aspect of our faith—sanctification. As believers, we are called not only to experience salvation but also to walk in sanctification. This process involves a daily, conscious decision to submit to Christ's authority and align our lives with His teachings. Let us explore the depths of this divine calling and how it intricately connects to our obedience and the redemptive power of Jesus' sacrifice.

Scripture: Our springboard for today’s discussion is: 1 Peter 1:2 - "According to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you."

This verse from 1 Peter beautifully outlines the purpose and process of sanctification. Sanctification is framed not merely as a spiritual status but as an ongoing journey of transformation and obedience. It is the work of the Holy Spirit, initiated by God’s foreknowledge and plan for our lives, and is intricately linked to our obedience to Jesus Christ and the cleansing efficacy of His blood. This relationship highlights that sanctification is both a gift and a responsibility—it is given through Christ’s sacrifice and sustained through our continual obedience and submission to His will.

Focus Points to work on:

1. Daily Surrender to Christ’s Lordship: Begin each day with a prayer of surrender, acknowledging Christ as Lord over every aspect of your life. Make a conscious effort to let go of self-will and invite Jesus to direct your paths. This daily act of surrender is fundamental to walking in sanctification and ensures that your decisions and actions throughout the day reflect Christ’s love and wisdom.

2. Cultivate a Lifestyle of Obedience: Obedience is the practical outworking of sanctification. Identify areas in your life where your obedience to God's commands could be improved—be it in your personal relationships, your business dealings, or your service to the community. Commit to making specific changes that align more closely with biblical principles, and seek accountability from trusted friends or mentors to help you maintain this commitment.

3. Regularly Partake in Communion: Engaging in the act of communion is a powerful reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and the cleansing of our sins. Regular participation in this sacrament can deepen your understanding of and appreciation for the sanctification process. It renews your commitment to live a sanctified life, cleansed by His blood and dedicated to His service.

Conclusion: Sanctification is a beautiful, challenging journey of becoming more like Christ. It requires our active participation and dedication to live out the principles taught by Jesus. As you implement these focus points, remember that sanctification is not a burden but a pathway to deeper joy and fulfillment in Christ.

Call to Action: This week, focus on one of the action steps mentioned above. Whether it's reinforcing your daily surrender, taking practical steps towards greater obedience, or participating in communion, choose an action that will strengthen your walk in sanctification.

Question of the Day: What area of your life requires more intentional obedience to reflect true sanctification?

Let's Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to a life of sanctification, cleansed by the blood of Jesus and led by Your Spirit. Help us to daily surrender our will to Yours and to obediently follow Your commands. May we embrace each step of this journey with faith and perseverance, knowing that You are with us, refining us for Your glorious purpose. Amen.

Brothers, let us rise to the challenge, equipped with the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Embrace the sanctification journey with open hearts and committed spirits. Let's Get To Work...