As a new creation in Christ, Peter’s newfound identity was at the forefront of his mind. It should come as no surprise, then, that the sevenfold blessing of an identity in Christ is also at the forefront of his first epistle. Read 1 Peter 1:1-12 and meditate on each of these Truths.

First, if you are in Christ, you have been elected (v. 2)—sovereignly chosen by God to be one of His people, the apple of His eye (see Zechariah 2:8). He began this saving work in your life, and He will see you safely to heaven’s gates. He never fails to finish what He starts.

Second, if you are in Christ, you have been born again (v. 3)—so powerfully transformed by the Spirit of God that you are now a new creation (see 2 Corinthians 5:17). You have undergone a powerful transformation from death to life.

Third, if you are in Christ, you have been given a living hope (v. 3)—the assurance that you have been forgiven, restored, and adopted as His child. You will spend eternity in the presence of your loving Father.

Fourth, if you are in Christ, you have been given an inheritance (v. 4)—a birthright that is sealed in heaven for you. With the rest of the saints, you will reign and rule with Christ, enjoying His presence for all eternity.

Fifth, if you are in Christ, you are protected and secure (v. 5)—under the watchful care of a gracious Father. God alone is your mighty fortress, and no one can do anything to take you out of His hand (see John 10:28).

Sixth, if you are in Christ, you are blessed to suffer for Christ (v. 6-7)—“for our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17). God will use your suffering for Jesus to bring you closer to Him than you’ve ever been before.

Lastly, if you are in Christ, you have been privileged to experience the grace of God (v. 10)—His unmerited favor that even the angels long to know. You were once a hell-deserving sinner, but now you have been redeemed by the precious blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. You are not only saved by this grace, but sustained by it each day.

Keep these blessings at the forefront of your mind. As you do, you will find yourself glorifying God and experiencing the fullness of His joy as never before.

Prayer: Lord, I praise You for Your loving kindness, faithfulness, and mercy displayed in these amazing blessings. Thank You for saving me and making me Your own. Use me for Your glory. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).

Check out more from Dr. Michael Youssef, here!