Thursday, May 7, 2026 

 Scripture 

“Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord.” 1 Peter 3:14b-15a 

Reflections 

What place does Christ Jesus have in your life? 

Some people see him as a great teacher, preacher and miracle worker of the past.  As an ideal to keep in mind, his godly life is looked upon as something to emulate. 

But the writer of 1 Peter goes much deeper than this.  He speaks of sanctifying Christ as Lord.  To “sanctify” means to set apart and give special place.  When we sanctify Jesus as our Lord, we give him the special place of “boss” of our lives, felt deep within the depths of our being.  That shifts our focus from head to heart.  His will becomes our will.  His plan becomes our plan.  His focus becomes our focus. 

When Jesus is Lord of our lives, we have little to fear.  We are reminded of the repeated times he exhorted his disciples not to fear.  “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Lk. 12:32)  “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” (Mt. 10:28)  “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” (Mk. 6:50b)  “Take courage: I have conquered the world!” (Jn. 16:33b) 

There is a holy space within our lives, a space meant only for the Lord Jesus Christ.  He is the only One who can fill it. 

Prayer 

Lord God, thank you for coming to me in Jesus.  Help me to give you your rightful place within my life, rooted in the very depths of my soul.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

Full Reading: 1 Peter 3:13-22