SUMMARY: Expectations
OVERVIEW: Christ’s life of service and sacrifice must be the basis for how we live and treat others. And we are always to be prepared to share our hope in Jesus.
BIG IDEA: Show respect in marriage, day-to-day relationships, and ministry.
KEY VERSE: 1 Peter 3:8 (Peter’s instructions to all)
Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
The way you live matters. Conduct yourself in a manner worthy of respect. Even if others don’t treat you well, don’t allow their negative actions to impact yours. For your closest relationships—husband and wife or family and friends—treat one another with care. Don’t focus on what you wear but rather on how you act. Seek unity and love each other with humility and acts of service.
Have high expectations for how you live and how you treat one another. Let others note a difference in your relationships and your words and actions. When you live that way, and others see you worship me, they will be more likely to hear you share your love for me and my love for them. Christ suffered for you, despite opposition. Let him live through you so others can see the life I offer. If you experience affliction, let it be for doing good. Live with a clear conscience, and show your love for me by how you love others.
NEXT STEP
Prayerfully evaluate your relationship with others. Ask a friend for feedback on how you treat others. If others challenge your actions or attitude, receive the criticism, and learn from it.
VIDEO CLIP
BONUS Lyric Video