Living by Design, Not Default: Embracing God’s Call to Holiness

We were never called to complacency and conformity to the world, God has a powerful invitation extended to each of us: to live by design, not by default. This concept challenges us to break free from the autopilot mode of life and intentionally align ourselves with God’s purpose for our lives.

Consider how we approach new technology. When we get a new phone or computer, we don’t simply accept the factory settings. We customize the brightness, download apps, and adjust settings to suit our needs. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, we’re called to make intentional adjustments rather than accepting the “default settings” of our sinful nature.

The apostle Peter, in his first epistle, provides profound guidance on this matter. He exhorts believers to “prepare your minds for action, be self-controlled” and to “set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed” (1 Peter 1:13). This call to action emphasizes the need for mental preparation and self-discipline in our spiritual journey.

But what does it mean to live by design? It means actively choosing to align our lives with God’s will, rather than passively drifting along with societal norms or our own inclinations. It’s about being intentional in our thoughts, actions, and decisions, always keeping in mind our identity as children of God.

One of the most challenging yet transformative aspects of living by design is the call to holiness. Peter reminds us, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy'” (1 Peter 1:15-16). This call to holiness isn’t about achieving perfection through our own efforts. Rather, it’s an invitation to participate in God’s nature, to be set apart for His purposes.

The concept of holiness often makes us uncomfortable. We might feel it’s an impossible standard or fear being perceived as “holier-than-thou.” However, God’s call to holiness is not a burden but a blessing. It’s an invitation to experience the fullness of life as God intended it. Just as a loving parent sets boundaries for their child’s wellbeing, God calls us to holiness for our own good and for His glory.

Living by design also means recognizing our status as “strangers” in this world. Peter urges believers to “live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear” (1 Peter 1:17). This doesn’t mean we isolate ourselves from society, but rather that we maintain a different perspective and set of values. Our ultimate citizenship is in heaven, and this should influence how we navigate life on earth.

A crucial aspect of living by design is understanding the preciousness of our redemption. Peter reminds us that we were not redeemed by perishable things like silver or gold, “but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:19). This truth should impact how we view ourselves and how we live our lives. We are incredibly valuable to God, purchased at an immeasurable cost.

Living by design also manifests in how we relate to others. Peter exhorts believers to “love one another deeply, from the heart” (1 Peter 1:22). This deep, sincere love is a hallmark of those who are living according to God’s design. It’s a love that goes beyond surface-level niceties, reaching into the depths of genuine care and compassion.

The journey of living by design is ongoing. It’s not a one-time decision but a daily choice to align ourselves with God’s will. Paul describes this process as working out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). Each day presents new opportunities to choose God’s design over our default settings.

It’s important to remember that we’re not alone in this journey. We have been “born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God” (1 Peter 1:23). This new birth empowers us to live differently, to break free from the patterns of this world and embrace God’s design for our lives.

Living by design requires us to be active participants in our faith. It means saying “no” to our default inclinations and “yes” to God’s way. It involves setting our minds on things above, controlling our impulses, and consistently choosing to love others deeply.

As we embrace this call to live by design, we may find ourselves standing out from the crowd. The default settings of this world often lean towards selfishness, pride, and instant gratification. By choosing God’s design, we may seem strange or different to those around us. But this distinctiveness is precisely what allows us to be salt and light in the world.

To live by design is a call to a fuller, richer life. It’s an opportunity to break free from the limitations of our default settings and step into the abundant life God has for us. As we embrace this call, may we find ourselves transformed, becoming more like Christ each day. Let us be people who are not content with the status quo, but who actively seek to align every aspect of our lives with God’s perfect design. In doing so, we not only experience personal transformation but also become agents of change in the world around us, reflecting the holiness and love of our Heavenly Father.

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Here’s a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide for your week:

Day 1: Living by Design, Not Default

Reading: 1 Peter 1:13-16

Devotional: God calls us to live intentionally, not by the default settings of our sinful nature. Just as we customize our devices, we’re invited to adjust our lives to God’s design. Holiness isn’t about perfection, but about being set apart for God’s purposes. Reflect on areas where you’ve been living by default. How can you intentionally align your thoughts and actions with God’s design for your life today?

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Day 2: The Invitation to Holiness

Reading: Matthew 5:48, Leviticus 11:44-45

Devotional: The call to holiness isn’t a burden, but an invitation to partake in God’s nature. It’s not about achieving perfection through our own efforts, but allowing God’s transformative power to work in us. Consider how you view holiness. Do you see it as an impossible standard or as God’s gracious invitation? Ask God to help you embrace His call to be set apart, trusting in His power to change you.

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Day 3: Citizens of Heaven

Reading: Philippians 3:20-21, Hebrews 11:13-16

Devotional: As believers, our true citizenship is in heaven. This world is not our permanent home, and we’re called to live as “strangers” here. How does this heavenly perspective change how you view your earthly pursuits and challenges? Pray for God to help you live with an eternal mindset, valuing what He values and seeking first His kingdom.

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Day 4: Redeemed for a Purpose

Reading: 1 Peter 1:18-21, Ephesians 2:10

Devotional: We’ve been redeemed at a great cost – not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ. This redemption isn’t just for our benefit, but for God’s purposes. Reflect on the price paid for your salvation. How does this impact your sense of purpose and mission in life? Ask God to reveal how He wants to use your redeemed life for His glory.

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Day 5: Love Deeply from the Heart

Reading: 1 Peter 1:22-25, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Devotional: The fruit of our transformation in Christ should be sincere, deep love for one another. This love goes beyond surface-level interactions to genuine care and vulnerability. Examine your relationships, especially within the body of Christ. Are you loving others deeply from the heart? Ask God to expand your capacity to love as He loves, breaking down any barriers of fear or selfishness.