ODJ: Follow Me

June 4, 2017 

READ: 2 Peter 1:1-12 

Because of [God’s] glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires (v.4).

Digital footprint. A phrase that describes an ever present reality didn’t even exist until recently. At the school where I teach, one of our technology leaders challenged us to consider whether our students grasped the permanency of where they go and what they do online. As she spoke, my mind pondered this question: If my digital footprint were a trail to follow, where would it lead others?

Technology can save time, transform communities and even help cure diseases. But like any human invention, it’s also a tool subject to the heart of the user, and its use can open up not only a world of information but a world of temptation.

No matter its offerings, all of the world’s technology can’t match what believers in Jesus have received because of His sacrifice: “everything we need for living a godly life” (2 Peter 1:3). Sexual temptation isn’t the only pitfall for our digital footprint to flee. Gossip, false identity, bitterness, financial dishonesty and a multitude of other sins can flourish behind the anonymity offered by a screen and a keyboard. Today’s text reminds us that we can resist the temptations we face, digital or otherwise, only by God’s “divine power” (v.3)—not by trying to adhere to a list of prohibited behaviours in our own limited strength.

People who live by the promises of Jesus strive to align their character and behaviour with their faith (vv.5-7). They don’t only hope for moral excellence; they “work hard” and are willing to sacrifice their own desires in order to live unreservedly for Christ (v.10).

Motivated by love, may we listen, and then obey by the power of the Holy Spirit one day at a time, one step at a time.

—Regina Franklin

365-day plan: Jonah 3:1-4:11

MORE
Read Psalm 1:1-6 and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any places where your daily choices need to be more radically influenced by your love for Jesus. 
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If others were to see your digital footprint, where would the trail lead them? How can accountability with someone you trust help ensure that the legacy you leave honours Jesus?