Confirming the Call

Series: 2 Peter

January 17, 2025
Pastor Mike

This lesson explores the importance of developing a dynamic, growing faith based on 2 Peter 1:1-15. It emphasizes the need for believers to actively cultivate Christ-like virtues, building upon the foundation of faith with qualities such as virtue, knowledge, self-control, and love. The lesson stresses that spiritual growth is an ongoing process, enabled by God's divine power and promises, which allows Christians to partake in the divine nature and resist worldly corruption.

Episode Notes

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on todays lesson

Day 1: Divine Power and Promise
Reading: 2 Peter 1:1-4

Devotional: As we begin this journey, let's reflect on the incredible truth that God has granted us "everything we need for a godly life" (v.3). This divine power isn't just a concept; it's a tangible reality available to every believer. Today, consider how you've experienced God's power in your life.
Have there been moments where you felt His strength carrying you through challenges?
 Remember, these aren't just isolated incidents, but manifestations of God's ongoing promise to equip us for godly living. As you go about your day, be mindful of opportunities to tap into this divine power, whether in moments of temptation, decision-making, or in extending love to others. Let this awareness transform your perspective and actions, knowing you're empowered to "participate in the divine nature" (v.4).

Day 2: Growing in Christlike Virtues
Reading: 2 Peter 1:5-7

Devotional: Peter presents us with a spiritual growth chart, urging us to supplement our faith with a series of virtues. It's not a checklist, but rather a interconnected web of qualities that shape us into Christ's image.
Today, focus on one or two of these virtues that you feel need strengthening in your life. Is it self-control? Perseverance? Brotherly kindness? Reflect on why this area might be challenging for you.
Then, consider practical steps you can take to cultivate this virtue. Remember, this growth isn't about earning God's favor, but about responding to the grace we've already received. As you strive to develop these qualities, invite the Holy Spirit to work within you, transforming you from the inside out.

Day 3: Effective and Fruitful Faith
Reading: 2 Peter 1:8-11

Devotional: The apostle Peter emphasizes that possessing and increasing in Christlike qualities keeps us from being "ineffective and unproductive" in our knowledge of Christ (v.8).
This challenges us to examine the fruit of our faith. Are we seeing tangible evidence of spiritual growth in our lives? Today, take time to reflect on your spiritual journey over the past year. What areas of growth can you identify? Where do you still see room for improvement? Remember, this isn't about perfection, but progression.
If you're feeling discouraged, take heart in Peter's encouragement that practicing these qualities ensures we "will never stumble" (v.10).
Ask God to reveal areas where you can be more intentional in your spiritual growth, and commit to taking one specific action towards that growth today.

Day 4: The Power of Reminders
Reading: 2 Peter 1:12-15

Devotional: Peter's determination to constantly remind believers of essential truths, even when they already know them, underscores the power of spiritual reminders. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to forget or neglect fundamental spiritual truths.
Today, consider creating a system of reminders for yourself. This could be setting daily alarms with Scripture verses, placing sticky notes with encouraging words around your home, or scheduling regular check-ins with an accountability partner.
Reflect on which truths you most need to keep at the forefront of your mind. Is it God's love? His faithfulness? Your identity in Christ? Choose one truth and find a way to remind yourself of it throughout the day.
Remember, like Peter, we all need constant stirring up in our faith.

Day 5: Grace and Peace Multiplied
Reading: 2 Peter 1:2, Philippians 4:4-8

Devotional: Peter's prayer for grace and peace to be multiplied to believers is a powerful reminder of God's desire for our wellbeing. Today, let's focus on how we can actively participate in the multiplication of grace and peace in our lives.
Start by meditating on the qualities listed in Philippians 4:8 - whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable. How might focusing on these things increase your experience of God's peace?
Consider journaling about moments when you've felt God's grace and peace most tangibly. What circumstances or practices seemed to usher in these experiences?
As you go through your day, consciously choose to dwell on thoughts that align with Philippians 4:8, and notice how it affects your inner peace.
Remember, as we align our minds with God's truth, we open ourselves to a greater experience of His grace and peace.

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