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I am a Holy Temple: Embracing Your Identity in Christ

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Who am I in Christ? “A Holy Temple”: A Christian devotional on being a holy temple in Christ

In the vast tapestry of God’s redemptive plan, believers hold a unique and privileged position as a holy temple. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we are invited into a transformative journey of discovering our true identity in Him. This devotional will delve into the biblical passages of Ephesians 2:21 and 1 Corinthians 6:19 to understand the significance of being a holy temple and how it impacts our lives today.

Case in point: Being chosen by God helped Sarah find her identity.

Meet Sarah, a young woman who struggles with low self-worth and a sense of purpose. She often seeks validation in relationships and achievements, only to be left feeling empty and incomplete. Sarah longs for a deep sense of belonging and a purpose that goes beyond the temporal. Her journey toward understanding her identity as a holy temple in Christ begins with an exploration of God’s Word.

In Ephesians 2:21 (ESV) states, “In him, the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.” This verse paints a beautiful picture of unity and growth in the body of Christ. As believers, we are not isolated individuals but part of a greater structure intricately joined together through our faith in Jesus Christ. We are being transformed into a holy temple, a dwelling place for God’s presence.

Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 6:19 (ESV) reminds us, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own.” This powerful statement emphasizes the sanctity of our bodies as followers of Christ. We are indwelled by the Holy Spirit, and our lives are no longer our own but dedicated to God’s service. Recognizing this truth leads to a deeper understanding of our responsibility and honor as a holy temple. 

How does Scripture answer Sarah’s struggles?

Being a holy temple means that our lives have been consecrated for a divine purpose. Just as a physical temple was set apart for worship and the dwelling of God’s presence in the Old Testament, we, as believers, are set apart for the same purpose. We are called to live lives that reflect the holiness and love of God to the world around us.

As a holy temple, we have the privilege of hosting God’s presence within us through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This divine presence empowers us, guides us, and transforms us from the inside out. It is a constant reminder that we are not alone in our journey but have the Holy Spirit as our constant companion, teacher, and comforter.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV) further emphasizes this truth: “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” These verses highlight the incredible significance of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. We are not our own masters but have been purchased by the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we are called to honor God with our bodies and make choices that align with His will.

Glorifying God in our bodies

Glorifying God in our bodies involves various aspects of our lives.

  • It means taking care of our physical well-being by adopting a lifestyle that promotes health and vitality.
  • It means using our bodies as instruments of righteousness, refraining from immorality, and pursuing purity in our thoughts and actions.
  • It means offering ourselves as living sacrifices, wholly dedicated to God’s service.

Recognizing the sanctity of our bodies as temples prompts us to be mindful of the influences we allow into our lives. We are called to guard our hearts and minds, filtering out anything that defiles or diminishes the holiness of the temple. This includes being discerning about the media we consume, the relationships we cultivate, and the activities we engage in.

By honoring God with our bodies, we become living testimonies of His love and grace. Our lives become a reflection of His transformative power, drawing others to seek Him and experience the freedom and purpose that come from being in Christ. Let us embrace the truth that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and glorify God in every aspect of our lives.

Bringing it Home: Chosen by God.

The Holy Spirit’s presence empowers us, guides us, and transforms us from the inside out. We have a constant reminder that we are not alone in our journey but have the Holy Spirit as our constant companion, teacher, and comforter.

As temples of the Holy Spirit, our bodies are not to be defiled or misused. We are called to honor God with our bodies and make choices that align with His will. This includes living a life of purity, seeking righteousness, and fleeing from sinful desires that can defile the temple. Our bodies are precious and have been redeemed by the blood of Christ, and we must steward them well.

As you journey through life, remember that you are not merely a random individual but a chosen vessel, a holy temple set apart for God’s purposes. Embrace the truth that the Holy Spirit dwells within you, empowering and guiding you in every step.

Live your life in a manner worthy of this calling, honoring God with your thoughts, words, and actions. Allow these truths to encourage you, and as a result, declare your commitment to be a holy temple where God’s presence is manifested.

May you continue to grow in understanding and living out your identity as a holy temple in Christ.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the concept of being a holy temple impact your understanding of your identity in Christ? Reflect on the significance of being chosen as a dwelling place for God’s presence and the implications it has for your life.
  2. In what ways can you honor God in your body and daily life as a dwelling place of the Holy Spirit? Consider how your choices, actions, and attitudes can either reflect or hinder the presence of God within you.
  3. Are there any areas in your life where you struggle to see yourself as a holy temple? How can you seek God’s transformation in those areas and allow Him to restore and renew you?
  4. How does the truth of being a holy temple influence your perspective on purpose and belonging in this world? Reflect on the assurance that your life has a divine purpose, and you belong to the family of God as part of a greater spiritual structure.

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