Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls (1 Pet. 1:8).

The gospel must be reflected in the attitudes as well as the actions of God’s people. The reason? Those with whom we share Christ will reject righteousness that reflects his holiness but not his heart.

The good news of Christ never slights the seriousness of the sin nor shades the wonder of God’s power and pardon. Tears of confession must mingle with the joy that pardon brings, produce the gratitude that empowers a transformed life, and inspire the humility that reaches the most humble.

When we truly perceive how great is the heart of the One who pardoned us, then our heart begins to beat in harmony with his. Though we have not seen him, others should see him in us. Though perfect righteousness is impossible, his cross yet stimulates joy inexpressible. Temporary setbacks are unavoidable, but our eternal salvation is unassailable.

So, we rejoice in the goodness of the gospel that saves us from our sin, and others come to know our Savior because Jesus is our joy!

Prayer:
Lord, help me to remember and relish the wonder of my salvation, so that my joy drowns my disappointments and bitterness in the wonder of you. Then, may the beauty of my transformation be a signal of the glory of my Savior so that others may see and share my joy.