I Peter 2:1-12   We have been "born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that through the living and abiding word of God.." 

The Word of God - brings life and salvation.. Peter urges us to "long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation."  When we receive, accept, and believe the Word.. we will taste the "kindness of the Lord". 

We believe and come to the Lord Jesus - the Cornerstone.. "choice and precious in the sight of God"
We become "living stones".. a "spiritual house".. a "holy priesthood". 
We are " a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of God's own possession." 

But those who refuse to believe, the unpersuadable, those who reject Jesus and stumble .. "are doomed". 

As God's people, Peter urges us to: put aside "all malice and all guile and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.."  He urges us to "abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul."  It is excellent behavior and "good deeds" that will testify of the glory of our God and "proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light;"  

This is our purpose and our commission - to live as the holy, chosen people of our God, proclaiming His excellence!  If we are living in any way less than God's best.. we smear His reputation as well as our own. No, we are not perfect... but we need to "grow in respect to salvation".. and that comes only through the Word of God.... the "living and abiding Word of God".

Father in heaven, fill us with Your Spirit who will lead us in the Truth of Your Word.. that we might live as obedient and holy followers of Jesus Christ our Lord. Grow us.. that we might know You more and love You more and more.. You are excellent in all Your ways, Lord God!  You are kind to us, bringing us into Your Light, showing us Your mercy, making us Your people.  Hallelujah!  How can we thank You enough?  O, that we might glorify You in all we say and in all we do! Let us turn away from the things of this world that do not bring You glory.. and live for You alone.  Help us Lord Jesus we pray. Amen.