Grow up (Part II)
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." (NIV) 2 Peter 3:18
From the previous devotion, we learnt that God expects us to grow up and be fruitful. The addition of godly attributes such as faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, love in our lives (2 Peter 1:5-11) will greatly enhance our growth in the Lord and bear fruits for the world to feed on. There are many aspects of our lives that need to be controlled for us to experience growth. Examples include the tongue which controls the whole being, the lust of the eyes & flesh and the pride of life (1 John 2:16).
There are many benefits of growing unto maturity and godliness. Godliness is profitable for everything. Living mature godly lives lead to safety and security and other great gains spiritually and physically (1 Peter 3:13).
Without being diligent and adding these attributes listed in 2 Peter 1:5-11 to our lives, we will be deficient in this world and beyond. When we persist in our efforts to maturity, we are promised a fruitful life. We ensure our salvation gets secured. We prevent ourselves from falling away from faith in God. We are promised an ultimate prize if we keep growing in the Lord.
Let us stand firm as Christians, persevere, and press on toward the goal. Get to know Christ through His church and try our best not to stumble. If any stumbles, let him/her get up and keep marching through spiritual growth to achieve our divine purposes.
Have you ensured your salvation in Christ? Have you accepted and put into action God’s guaranteed plan for your life? Do you want to be saved? Begin with faith and start the growth process (Hebrew 11:6).