Let’s look at the passage 1 Peter 2:21-25
 
“For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps: who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in His mouth, and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously; and He himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for  by his wounds you were healed. For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.”
 
There are many ways to study the Word of God - one of my favorites is to take a passage of maybe 4 or 5 verses and look at the main point (or points) of what it is speaking.  It always amazes me how much is spoken in only a few lines - so much life!  So with that in mind, let’s break down this passage in 1 Peter:
 
1. You have been called.  We called stop right there!  We have been called by God to be His child.  Called from what?  From death, eternal punishment, the world - all made possible by Jesus.  We have escaped the wrath of God through the blood of Jesus, and we are called by name. Hallelujah!  And there’s more - we have a purpose -  to love as Jesus loved and walk according to His ways.
 
2. Follow Jesus’ example.  I love this phrase - to “follow in His steps.” It automatically makes me think of the beach.  Most kids at some point try to walk in the footprints left behind by their parent - it guides the way, makes us feel safe, and is challenging, yet rewarding and fun!  The same is true with our walk in the Lord - as children of God, we can follow in the footsteps of His Son, Jesus - providing direction, safety, and fulfillment - and is exciting! Follow in the steps laid by Jesus!
 
3. Let God have the vindication.  Alright here is a section that is difficult for many of us.  So often we want to set things right, get back at, or make it known that someone else is wrong and we are right.  But that is not how Jesus acted - and not what we are admonished in 1 Peter - it states “and while being reviled, He did not revile in return.” Psalm 17:2 states: May my vindication come from You, may You eyes see what is right.  Let God set straight that what needs fixed, and continue walking in Him.
 
4. Though we may stray, Jesus takes us back and covers us!  There are times in life where we may stray away from God.  Many circumstances can lead you to this, but don’t lose hope.  Jesus is always waiting there to take you back - there is so much hope, joy, and peace found in the arms of Christ that way out-satisfies anything this world can offer.  If you have strayed - come back to Him, and He will guide, protect and lead your life. If you have remained faithful to Him, give Him the praise and glory for being ever-more faithful back, and for the peace and love and mercy He brings.
 
Rejoice today for God is so good - when Jesus leads us, we can follow in His steps and experience boundless freedom, joy, and adventure in Him!