Devotional Journal: Reflection on 2 Peter 1:5-9

Faith is never passive. Faith is always attached to something active. This is the very reason we are to add to our faith the following attributes: virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, and love. Every single attribute invokes an action.  

Virtue seeks moral excellence in everything that we do. Knowledge increases when we learn more and reflect the things of God. Self-control is the ability to say no to destructive things and ways. It also grants balance with those things which are good. Perseverance fortifies our resolve to keep pushing forward even in fiery trials. Godliness is the manifestation of God’s glory beaming inwardly first, then outwardly. This is all a result of respect and reverence before a Holy God. Kindness and love are actions we do for the betterment of others.  

If I am truthful this is always a work in progress. To list these attributes are easy but putting them into practice is a different story.  All of this we add on and abound in which requires faith as the cornerstone. We must believe and rely solely on His grace through faith. This is the only way to become fruitful in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.  Persevere in the faith and continue to add on. 

5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins.-2 Peter 1:5-9 (ESV)

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2016. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.