2 Peter 1:5-8
For this very 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, mutual affection; and to mutual affection,
love. For 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.
The crowd cheered.
Our grandson, Aiden, a senior on the varsity basketball team,
broke his own record. A few weeks previous, he set the record for the most
three-point shots in a game at his school. He made eight three-point shots
(baskets made beyond the arc.) Impressive. Then a few games later, he hit nine three-point
shots and smashed his own record.
How did this young man do it? Practice, self-control, and knowledge
of the game played a big part. He stayed after practice and challenged himself
to make as many baskets in a row as he could. His perseverance paid off. Even
in his excitement to break his record, his ability to be a good teammate shined
throughout the game. After the game, his team gathered around him, hugged him,
and congratulated him. They showed him how much they valued him.
Peter writes to make every effort to pursue faith, goodness,
knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, affection, and love. Those are
all qualities I strive toward in everything I do. They all help me live a
productive life for God. Sometimes it takes more work than others. Self-control
is a tricky one for me, especially with sweets, but I continue to try. Jesus
set the perfect example as He ministered to everyone who would listen. God asks
me to grow in knowledge of Him every day. And I’m so thankful He gave us the Bible
to read and study. I strive to be a better person, as I live my life as a
believer and follower of Christ.
Seek ways to grow.