6 Feb - 2 Peter 1

Today we are starting another book in the Bible. 2 Peter chapter 1. Here are some thoughts:

1. In verse 3 we read that God’s power gives those who follow Jesus everything we need to live in a way that is pleasing to God.
2. We are told to “add to our faith” the following; goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. We are told that possessing these qualities will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive. Also, we are told if anyone does not have them they are nearsighted and lost sight of the truth that they have been cleansed from past failures.
3. In verses 12-15 we read why Peter is writing these letters. He knows that he is about to die (vs. 14) and he wanted to ensure that these qualities were ingrained in the memory of those he lead. By the way, Peter was crucified during the reign of Nero in A.D. 67,68. It is widely accepted that Peter was crucified upside down at his request because he did not feel himself worthy to die as Jesus had. So the image of the upside down cross you see in some tattoos are not necessarily meant to be evil or anti-God.
4. I find verse 16 interesting. Peter felt it important to remind people that he “did not follow cleverly invented stories” but instead retold his eyewitness accounts of the life of Jesus. It’s almost as if Peter wanted to record an answer for modern day critics as well.

A lot of people claim that religion is a crutch. Well, I agree but not for the same reasons. I do see my faith as a crutch in the sense that I am just not strong enough to deal with how difficult life can be at times. There are many people that want to be autonomous and claim their independence but let’s be honest; there are times when we all need help. There is peace in knowing that God wants to be that for us. The truth is living as a follower of Jesus is in many ways more difficult. Living my life to simply please myself is easy, I do what I want and when I want. However, living a life that is pleasing to God, one that is characterized by our saying to “Love God and Love People,” is quite difficult at times. It’s awesome that God says his power is enough to live this life. 

Would you say that your life is one that is characterized by the list found in 2 Peter chapter 1? If so how? If not what is one that you can focus on this week to improve and how will you try to do so?