Scripture Text: 2 Peter 1:3-7
His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
2 Peter 1:3-4
The second letter of Apostle Peter to the churches in Asia Minor began by reminding Christians that we are given the power from God to pursue righteousness in Christ Jesus, because we have been saved from the slavery of sin and are now slaves of righteousness in Christ.
As the elected people of Christ, our God has granted us all the necessary things to pursue this life in righteousness. Firstly, when Christ redeemed us through the cross and freed us from the captivity of sin, His intention was not merely for us to be free from sin but to be enslaved by His love. We are to follow our God by living our lives solely according to His will. He has given us sustenance for our entire spiritual journey, promises to hold on to, and perseverance to finish this course.
This world has been corrupted by sin, and all that is within it is decaying. However, we are saved from this and our sinful desires resulting in death. This should be one of the reasons why we aim to live a holy life that is blameless and righteous in front of God.
Then Apostle Peter enumerated the things that we need to do to take part in the sanctification process while we are here on earth, starting with virtue, which is purity and modesty reinforced by the word of God as our standard of living. Then with self-control that does not give in to fleshly passion but restrains from it. Proceeded with steadfastness, which is perseverance, and Godliness, which is a devoted life set apart only for His purpose. Then addressed it to the neighbors by loving and being kind to our brethren.
Let us make every effort to confirm our calling and election by faithfully living out these virtues in our lives. As we do so, we can have confidence that, in whatever circumstances, we are doing the will of God in our lives.
Remember
By continually developing these virtues, we become more effective in our walk with Jesus Christ. We are called to remember our identity as set-apart individuals, forgiven of our sins, and empowered to live a life that honors God alone.
Reflect
Do we make sure that we keep our lives according to the will of God, holy and righteous in the sight of God through our Lord Jesus Christ who saved us from the curse that is in us?
Pray
We pray to you, our Gracious Father, asking for Your help to live out our lives pleasing only to You, our Creator, set apart only for Your purpose. Teach our hearts to be filled with Your word and put it into our lifestyle so we can make sure that in all that we do, it is our aim to please You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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