“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” II Peter 1:3
I am reminded of a book I sent my wife years ago when we were long-distance dating called, “I’m Here, You’re There, No Fair!” It was a cute little book that expressed in my heart the reality of our being apart, yet voicing my opinion on how much I thought that stunk! Over the years, my relationship with my Lord and Savior has had some of those same themes — you may be able to relate. You know, God seems so distant, silent, unresponsive that we often shout, “I’m right here!” — assuming He is right there, somewhere! We wait and wait for an answer, a sign, a signal of some kind as proof of His presence.
However, despite those feelings or sense of silence, I know that God is near. How? Well, he tells us this in II Peter. That through His promises we are able to PARTICIPATE in the divine nature!! Participate with HIM!! Wow! What’s not fair about that? That’s an incredible, unbelievable — words cannot describe — gift from Him through His many promises!
Certainly we must trust and have faith! It is why Peter continues to write . . .
“For this reason, 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, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.” [vs. 5-7]
This feels like a whole lot of work doesn’t it? Yes, it does! It’s a celebration of participation with the God of the universe, living inside me and overflowing from my heart, my mouth, my ears, my hands and my feet! It’s the power in me that gives me the ability to be effective in what I do and productive in the knowledge of my Lord Jesus Christ [v.8]. But, cast it away, place it the category of life labeled “Unimportant” and you are nearsighted and blind, forgetting who you are in Christ [v.9]. Nearsighted and blind? This suggests I can see only what is right in front of me and unable to see at all. On the flip side, it suggests too, that we must remember and see that He HAS cleansed us from our past sins!!!
The reward is huge! Following Him, remembering what He has done and living in the Light of His promises, instead of the shadows of shame or regret, is exactly how He wants us to live every single day of our life. This is truly the richest blessing of life one can every obtain!
“Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” II Peter 1:10-11
———————————–
(personal emphasis added)