1 Peter 1:13-16Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) 13 So brace up your minds; be sober (circumspect, morally alert); set your hope wholly and unchangeably on the grace (divine favor) that is coming to you when Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is revealed. 14 [Live] as children of obedience [to God]; do not conform yourselves to the evil desires [that governed you] in your former ignorance [when you did not know the requirements of the Gospel]. 15 But as the One Who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all your conduct and manner of living. 16 For it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy.

1. of Focus and Self-Discipline
f ocus and self-discipline provide the foundation for solid leadership. Peter learned this lesson the hard
I way. Over three and a half tough years, God transformed Peter from an impetuous, loud influence to a
thoughtful, humble leader. Consider the marching orders Peter gives leaders:
L. Gird your minds (v. 13).
,ust as men would gird their loins so their robes wouldnt get caught on obstructions as they walked, so
' we are to gird the loins of our minds. We must remain focused and sober.
2. Guard your hearts (v. 14).
Leaders must prevent old patterns from penetrating their hearts. Peter specifically warns against former
lusts, which would not only distract them, but might also destroy their leadership.
3. Guide your lifestyle (w. 15, 15).
Leaders must pursue holiness-and the only way to attain it is to embrace the model Christ gave. Since
God is holy, we must copy what we see Him doing.