“Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. 2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. 3 For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4 They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. 5 But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.” 1 Peter 4.1-6
Rejuvenation. That is what defines a life once living in sin and now living according to the spiritual nature. And this is what Peter is talking about. Just as Christ suffered and put to death our sin, so “whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.” We who join with Christ in his suffering no longer should live in sin.
No longer will we live in sin! Peter writes about those who have died to sin and now do not live “the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.” This is the difference between a life committed to Jesus and one who does believe or abide in his word.
I lived much of my early life for evil human desires. Seeking what I want, what I need, what I desire. But now, as I strive towards sanctification, I am living for the will of God. It’s not that I do this perfectly every time but rather I am being transformed by the power of his Spirit. And everyday it is a battle to obey the Lord or obey my flesh. Yet Jesus has won the battle. I need only to follow his example.
Last night I worshipped and prayed with twenty godly men at a retreat in Colorado. The power of prayer is amazing. We gathered, one after another, and laid hands and anointed our brothers with oil. Each of us needed prayer just as each of us needed to continually surrender our souls to Jesus. It was an incredible time which doesn’t often happen in todays culture. Yet it should.
Being rejuvenated in Jesus happens both instantaneously and over time. We are saved at the moment we receive his suffering, death and resurrection but walking in holiness, being molded and formed by the Spirit is a life long process.
Will you enter this process? Be transformed and allow the light of Christ to shine on you.
“O Lord God, I thank you for a week of ministry and encouragement with my Christian brothers in Colorado. Thank you for the power of community. For laughter, for confession, for tears and for triumphs. I thank you for the power of your Holy Spirit who lives in me and who reigns forever. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen