Topic: 2 Peter 1:5-7
"... make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge, and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love." 2 Peter 1:5-7
Math was never my favorite subject in school. I learned the multiplication tables through sheer determination and a good memory. Algebra and geometry were major trials that I suffered through only with the assistance of patient, good-natured teachers.
Such discipline is also needed in the Christian life-this time with addition! My goal in conquering basic mathematical skills was a decent grade. Peter encourages us to be diligent about adding the qualities listed above for a far greater purpose: "If you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Second Peter 1:8)
In school my knowledge of math was tested through frequent examinations. These tests were neither welcomed nor enjoyed, but they were an accurate assessment of my growth in the subject. This is also true in our Christian experience. Tests will reveal how we are doing in our walk of faith, but we have the amazing promise that "God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted (or tested) beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted (or tested), He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."
How different might be our attitude toward life's tests if we viewed them as "math problems"-part of the pattern leading us toward an "effective and productive" life.
Lord, I often react to my spiritual growth just as I did to math-with complaint and short-sightedness. Help me be diligent in growth, gratefully applying myself to Your plan for my life. Amen.
How is God helping you "add" in your Christian life? Which of the qualities listed by Peter is most difficult for you? In which quality have you recently seen growth?
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 11:02 AM CDT
