A Passage To Ponder: 2Peter 1

A newly hired and eager young man just graduated from the state university with a degree in agriculture.

Excited about his new job with the county ag department he was assigned to visit local farmers and share his knowledge.

On his first visit to Farmer Jones, he drove up to the field where he was working and motioned for him to come over. Jones got off his tracker and asked, “How can I help ya’?”

“Mr. Jones, I’m from the agriculture department and I’ve come to teach you new and improved methods of farming.”

The farmer studied the young fellow and then dismissed him with a wave saying, “Go on, Son, I’m not usin’ half of what I already know.”

It may be with many long time Christians that we don’t need to learn a lot that’s new, but just begin using what we already know.

The apostle Peter wrote in this regard when he penned these words:

“Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder” (2 Peter 1:13-14).

Here are some things I know from this great chapter.

I know the Christian life is founded on and facilitated by faith. Faith in the person of Jesus Christ. Faith in the power of God to work in my life–to save me from sin. And to lead me into a knowledge of Christ, God’s will for my life, and all that I need spiritually. Faith in the promises of God which are great and precious.

I know that active faith accelerates spiritual growth. For this process to occur I know that I need to add to my faith…

..Virtue or moral excellence. The noble courage to do what we know we need to do. And to do it well.

..Knowledge. Not just academic or intellectual knowledge, but the ability to practically apply God’s Word to our lives.

…Self-control. Also translated “temperance,” it’s the ability to reign in one’s passions. To get a grip on your desires, feelings, and emotions. It’s self-mastery.

…Patience. The ability to endure while encountering the pressures, problems, and even pleasures of life. It’s the discipline that never gives up, gives in, or gives out.

…Godliness. Simply put, it’s God-likeness. It may be defined and described by reverence. Piety. Or divine devotion.

…Brotherly Kindness. Literally, this means “love of the brethren.” It speaks to the affection, affinity, and fondness we should feel for our brothers and sisters of like faith.

…Love. The supreme virtue. Agape. The love of God for all people. Love that seeks active goodwill for even the most unlovable among us.

I know that spiritual growth produces fruitfulness. The results of my faith are obvious. And observable. I’m not idle, but active. I’m not barren but blooming and abounding.

I know my spiritual vision is clear. Farsighted. Discerning. And Unobstructed. I can see God’s greatness, goodness, and graciousness.

I know my salvation is secure. My calling is certain. And election is sure. As long as I remain “in Christ.”

I know I need reminders of my responsibilities and relationships. Prod me. Encourage me. Admonish me. Inspire me. And push me to deeper devotion. Greater faithfulness. And higher aspirations.

I know that I can trust God’s Word. It’s not a book of human fables, but divine facts and absolute truth. The witnesses are reputable. The record reliable. The revelation is infallible.

What do you know? Are you using what you know? And are you doing what you know you ought to do?

In the words of Jim Rohn, “Don’t let your learning lead to knowledge, let your learning lead to action.”

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman