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My wife and I moved recently, and while walking on some wood beams in the backyard, I jammed my foot straight through the wood. Ouch! A few days later, I punched another hole. A week after that, two more! If I were to go and swap out those four boards with new wood, I wouldn’t be solving the problem. Sure, I might fix the holes, but a deeper issue is clearly causing these problems. The wood is infested with termites, and the whole deck needs to be gutted. 

This week we have explored the cautionary tale of Saul’s jealousy over David. As we reflect on our struggles with bitterness and envy, it can be tempting to try and “fix the holes.” There is a deeper issue leading to these problems. The issue is not knowing and believing what God says about those adopted into His family. 1 Peter 2 walks us through a prophecy of Jesus being a precious cornerstone and that those who reject this stone live in disobedience. But, for those whose faith is in Jesus, he says we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and God’s special possession. Do you believe that you are the masterpiece of all God’s creation and that you share royalty with the likes of King David? Knowing and believing who we are changes what we do and how we love others. If you struggle with jealousy, understand that the deep root of this issue is likely not believing what God has said about you and what He calls you into.

Reflection: Memorize 1 Peter 2:9. Write it on a notecard and place it on your nightstand. Write it with a marker on your bathroom mirror. Change your phone background to this verse so that your heart meditates on it daily!

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