2 Peter 1:3-5 Some interesting thoughts enter my mind as I read these words from the Holy Spirit via the hand of Peter. It is through the promises of God that believers become partakers in the divine nature. No, believers never become part of God, nor do they become little God's, but amazingly they share in his nature as they become increasingly like him. His promises include the indwelling Holy Spirit, new life in Christ, likeness to God, eternal life in heaven, continual presence and others.
Transformation takes place as a result of faith and must take concrete form in our lives. This is not a call to add to our salvation by some sort of works, but is an exhortation to live as Christ taught. The virtues listed in vs.5-7 are the result of faith and if I read it correctly their implementation in our lives is key to the divine nature being relevant and recognizable in our lives. (2 Peter 1:8) When you consider the various supplements listed in vs.5-7 and how they interconnect one with another, then we need to recognize they need to be underpinned correctly. If one block is missing the building is unstable and crumbles. Peter does not say to supplement our faith with some of these, but the intent is all of them. If we possess them and are open to being stretched in these areas our lives will be effective and fruitful. It's a great challenge! Perhaps since we have a less than 'full' social calendar these days😑 we could use a little of that time to consider the extent we are allowing these spiritual health aids to influence our character.
Pastor Paul
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