But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. II Peter 1:5-7
There are great and precious promises for those of us who have grace and peace in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. This knowledge is faith in the workings of God through Christ, and the apostle Peter makes it very clear that such blessings need to result not in a stagnant faith, but one that is continually growing. How? By diligently seeking to grow in virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. But, what exactly do these words mean and how do I live them out in my life? It’s a good question to ask and a great place to begin our focus as we start a new year in determination to abound and be fruitful in the work of the Lord.
I have more to write on reflecting upon these godly qualities. I hope you will join me in this new year focus.
Prayer:
My God, Your divine power has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge of Jesus our Lord. Having escaped the corruption that is in the world by faith, I devote myself this year to be diligent to add to my faith. Thank you that Peter has given me instruction on the qualities that are to be actively sought to accomplish this most rewarding task. As I begin this new year, I reflect and put special focus on what each quality means, and seek to diligently grow so that I will continually abound and be fruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. In Jesus, Who has called me to glory and virtue and given exceedingly great and precious promises, Amen.
Truth in love,
Heather
Truth in Love 