November 20 — Foreigners And Exiles

Scripture
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
1 Peter 2:11–12 (NIV)

Peter begins with two words full of compassion: “Dear friends.” Before he gives instruction, he reminds us who we are to God. We are His beloved children, chosen and cleansed through Christ, brought into a new Kingdom that will never fade. With that identity secure, Peter urges us to pay attention to the battle within. Sinful desires are not just struggles. They are things that wage war against our souls, slowly weakening our joy, our clarity, and our Kingdom effectiveness. Yet we do not fight alone. The God who calls us His own also supplies the strength we need.

Peter also reminds us that this world is not our true home. We are “foreigners and exiles,” people who belong to a better Kingdom. Augustine once wrote, “We are sojourners, not wanderers. Our home is not here, yet we travel through this world in hope towards the one to come.”¹ When we hold this truth close, it loosens our grip on what is temporary and helps us live with eternity in view.

When we live this way, something beautiful happens. People notice. Even those who misunderstand us or oppose us will see the difference Christ makes. Our kindness, integrity, and good deeds become a quiet testimony that speaks louder than words. Peter says that one day even our critics may glorify God because of the life they witnessed in us. That is the power of a life shaped by Jesus.

So with the short time we have, may we resist what harms our souls and embrace what strengthens our walk with Christ. May our days reflect the beauty of His Kingdom, and may our lives tell a story that points people to Jesus. And remember, God has placed you right where you are, at this moment in time, to shine His light. Your faithfulness matters more than you know, and He will use your life in ways far greater than you can see.

Reflection
1. What sinful desire or temptation has been waging war against your soul lately, and how might God be inviting you to resist it with His strength?

2. How does remembering that you are a “foreigner and exile” reshape the way you view your choices and priorities today?

3. What simple act of goodness or love could reflect Christ to someone around you this week?

Prayer
Ask God to strengthen you in the battles you face and to help you live with the perspective of His eternal Kingdom. Pray for a life that shines with His goodness so that others may see Him through you.

Footnote
¹ Augustine of Hippo, City of God, Book XIX, Chapter 17.