The movie Rocky 3 begins with Rocky at the height of his boxing career and close to retirement. But very quickly, he loses a title fight to Clubber Lang and his trainer dies. A rematch with Clubber Lang is scheduled, and Rocky’s former rival Apollo Creed agrees to train him. However, as the training begins, it is evident that Rocky is not committed and he is not putting forth his full effort. Eventually, Adrian asks Rocky why he is even there, and he confesses that he is acting only out of fear. Adrian tells him that fear is okay, but if he is going to fight, he needs to do it for the right reasons. From then on, Rocky trains with energy and vigor, because he is motivated to do well and win.
Having the right reasons keeps us motivated, even in difficult circumstances. For believers, understanding who God is creates a healthy fear of God in our lives. Having this correct view of God is the motivation we need to live a holy life. In 1 Peter 1:17-21, we see three attributes of God that offer strong motivation to live in holiness.
17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you 21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God. – 1 Peter 1:17-21
- God is a judge, which leads to fear
We need to remember that one day we will stand before God and give an account for our lives. Instead of only looking at the parts of God that we like and feel comfortable with, we should have a healthy fear of God based on His full character. This fear of God is not a crippling terror, but a humbling reverence.
- God is redeemer, which leads to gratitude
As Christians, our freedom has been purchased by the blood of Christ. We have been set free from the futility of our sinful lives. This salvation should make us grateful, which will motivate us to live a holy life.
- God has a plan, which leads vindication and glorification
The salvation we have received was God’s plan before time. The death of Jesus on the cross was not an accident but a divine appointment. We know that God has good things planned for us, so we can confidently walk in holiness by faith.
God is a just judge, but He is also a loving savior with good plans for His people. Understanding who He is should fill us with reverent fear, gratitude, and confident faith. This is the proper motivation to live in obedience. We can only walk