Week 47 Saturday

Under Construction

Today’s scripture selection: Second Peter

Key verses: Second Peter 1:3; 5-7

Do you ever feel like you need something more?  Do you ever think you need something more in the way of talent; resources; wisdom; strength?

Well, according to Peter – if you are a person of faith – you already have more than enough to make it.  Here’s how he puts it:

“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness….For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness; brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.”

I know – at first glance – that seems like a pretty tall order.

But I think of it this way: building blocks.

Remember those from your childhood?  How slowly; carefully; you put one block on top of another – until you had built a skyscraper or fairytale castle?

True, sometimes the blocks fell over – and you had to start building again – but little by little – your skill and ability grew until you finally accomplished your task; especially if you had a loving parent helping you to build.

It seems to me that this is what Peter is suggesting we can do in our spiritual lives.

Taking what God has graciously given to us; we build upon it.  And eventually, we build a life that is not only pleasing and meaningful – it gives glory and honor to Him.

Peter says, “For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Peter should know.  Impulsive; once spiritually immature; even cowardly – little by little – one block at a time – he grew into being Peter the “rock” solid disciple of Christ.

If the Lord could do that with a simple fisherman who once betrayed Him, not just once but three times, just think what He might do with you. . .one building block at a time.

Prayer: Lord, build me up, according to your gracious will.  AMEN.