January 14, 1999, Thursday

Who does God set apart for Himself to do His work

and to speak for Him? Is a servant of God free from

the penalty sin and death? Is there an advantage to

have the joy and peace the believer in Christ has?

The Psalmist tells us that God has a special place for

the one that wants to live a righteous life before God--

"But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him

who is godly; The Lord will hear when I call to Him"

(Psa 4:3). That person has an open line to God for his

requests and promise of His quick reply.

Paul reminds all believers to remember that they are

now free from sin and not to consider returning to it

"But now, being free from sin, and having been made

servants to God, you have your fruit in that which is

holy, and the end is eternal life" (Rom 6:22). He now

gives us the the spiritual power to overcome sin.

Paul explained to the Roman believers that the hope of

the Holy Spirit in their heart would remove despair--

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace

in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the

power of the Holy Spirit" (Rom 15:13). Our difficult

situations may cause disillusions but when our hope does

not falter, we see His power able to overcome the trial.

Let us remember who is the God that sanctifies us as a

holy people. God's name is Jehová Mekaddesh, He is the

Lord that sets His people apart. He completely cleanses

us from all unrighteousness. He completely liberates us

from the power of sin. He completely fills us with His

Holy Spirit. Lift your hands to Him and Praise Him today

for His mercy, purpose, and will to sanctify us!