II Peter 1:1-15    Peter writes this letter to those who have "received a faith of the same kind.. " as his.  A faith that comes by the "righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ..."  

This letter is for us, who believe and are saved by faith in the Lord Jesus, to remind us of the "way.. into the kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.." ( v11)  Peter thought it important that followers of Jesus keep these truths in mind.. even after knowing them and being established in them. He calls for us to be diligent "to make certain about His calling and choosing you;"  by continually practicing and increasing in these qualities that characterize believers in Jesus. 

These qualities are ours in the "knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord" .. for His power "has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence."   This.. Peter reminds us.. is His promise to us!  O how thankful we are!

Knowing Jesus and partaking of His nature allows us to be diligent in our faith.... so that our character is shaped by what we believe and how we trust in Him.  We do not live according to a past declaration of faith for we have a living hope.. growing and progressing in ways that make us  more like Jesus.  

Peter says that means we "supply moral excellence... knowledge... self-control.. perseverance.. godliness.. brotherly kindness.. and.. love"  A life shaped by faith in Jesus Christ will exhibit  these qualities in ever increasing measure.  Peter says.. "For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 

How can we do this?  Only by the "grace and peace" that we find in knowing  Jesus. 

Father, O how we need You. Every day and every hour.. we need this reminder that everything in our lives depends on knowing Jesus our Lord and growing closer to Him.  Thank You Holy Spirit for the fellowship we have inYou as we follow Your guidance through the Word of God.  Help us to add moral excellence.. doing everything to the glory and honor of our God. Help us to know You more and more through the Word and the Spirit.  Grant us the fruit of the Spirit - love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control.. and patience. Let Your will be done in us, Father.  We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.