Scripture to Read: 2 Peter 1:10–11
God continues to challenge all believers as He had Peter write 2 Peter 1:10–11. Since 2 Peter 1:10 starts with the word, “Therefore,” as we all know, we need to ask ourselves, “What’s the ‘therefore ’there for?” The answer: because God gives us EVERYTHING we need according to 2 Peter 1:3–4 and, as we apply these seven characteristics in 2 Peter 1:5–7, we MUST work that much harder to make sure others see that we belong to God through Christ our King. God gives us the good news that we will NEVER STUMBLE as we live out these seven godly characteristics. Though never stumbling seems impossible, God would not have said this if it were not true. The reason we’ll never stumble is that we WILL continually choose to FLEE from sin due to pursuing the seven godly characteristics in our life. God also affirms that as we walk in these seven godly characteristics, our entry into Christ’s kingdom will be given to us with the abundance of ALL Christ has to offer us. Now, some people might misinterpret 2 Peter 1:11 to say that this is a “works-based salvation,” BUT that is NOT true. If we walk in obedience to our Lord, our entrance into His kingdom will be joyful, without shame or guilt. Why would God say our entrance into Christ’s kingdom will be abundantly supplied to us who apply 2 Peter 1:5–7? Because He warns us in 1 John 2:28 to live for Him here on earth so that we’re NOT ASHAMED when Christ returns for us.
Challenge & Application
· What was the most exciting truth that God taught you today, and how will you apply that truth?
· How has God already been transforming you as you have been applying these seven characteristics?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!