The apostle Peter was an expert on spiritual growth. While Jesus was on earth, Peter was a very zealous (passionate and enthusiastic) disciple. He was brave enough to walk on the water toward Jesus, and he confessed that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God.
Yet Peter also struggled with pride and sometimes said the wrong thing. However, as he grew in Christ, he became more humble and served as a guiding force in the early church. We, like Peter, must grow in Christ one step at a time.
In 2 Peter 1:5-11, Peter provided guidelines for strong spiritual growth. If we integrate these principles into our lives, we are promised that we will never stumble and will assure our salvation.
The Harmony of Spiritual Growth
The key word that links the characteristics of a Christian life is “add.” This word does not connote (suggest or imply) the idea of stacking traits on top of each other.
Instead, think of an orchestra. A few instruments start by playing a theme, and then other instruments join in. Although they play different variations, they blend together into a harmonious masterpiece. As we grow in Christ, we add these characteristics to our lives so they support and enhance one another.
The Foundation of Faith
The core theme of our growth is faith. Faith runs through every single characteristic we add. Faith teaches us about the traits we must develop through the word of God (Romans 10:17).
We cannot have moral courage unless we know the high standards in God’s word and find the strength to live by them. Likewise, spiritual knowledge comes from the Scriptures. The Bible teaches us the need for self-control, perseverance, godliness, and love. If we do not know God’s word, we cannot grow.
Faith as Our Motivation
Faith also motivates us to stand strong when others mock our values. When you live by a higher moral code, you will be at odds with the world.
People who do not follow God’s will may shun or ridicule you. It takes great trust to do the right thing when friends, neighbors, or family think you are crazy (1 Peter 4:4). Trust in God helps you endure, knowing you are pleasing Him.
Faith provides the energy to keep improving and becoming like Jesus. By faith, you can see what you are capable of becoming.
Faith cannot be dead; it must be a catalyst (something that triggers or speeds up growth) for action. If we want to walk as Jesus walked, we must show our faith by our works. Faith transforms us into something far greater than we were.
Building a Strong Life
As we study the characteristics we must add to our lives, one thing is clear: as our faith grows stronger, every other Christian virtue is refined.
If our faith grows weak, then our moral courage, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, and love will be poor imitations of what they ought to be. Keep building on your foundation of faith.
Private Reflection Journal
What is one thing from this study that you can apply to your life today? Jot down your thoughts below.