Make an Effort
This morning I was doing some reading and I was deeply struck by a passage in 2 Peter 1.
In verse 3, we’re told that “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness…” This is talking about God here. He has given us “everything we need.” Doesn’t that sound like a cheesy Ball State jingle? The difference is that BSU claims to give you everything you need to succeed in an educational and vocational manner. This passage is talking about succeeding in life and godliness.
As Christians, we’re called to live the life that Jesus showed us is not just a possibility, but a reality. We are to strive for life and godliness. I don’t know about you…but I really stink at living the way we’re called to live. And here’s why I say that…
In verses 5-8, Peter tells us to “make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, self-control; and to self control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
See…I’m not good at this whole kindness and love thing. It’s just not always in my nature to be kind and loving. Yes, I’m working at it…But, I realize that I have to make an effort. Otherwise I will remain ineffective and unproductive.
I don’t think that we will necessarily master these qualities. However, in a passionate pursuit of trying to become more like Christ, the qualities will begin to make more of a regular appearance in our lives.
I believe half of the battle in this life is simply in making the effort. It would be really easy for me to look at this list and say…”Um, I give up.” But, I think I’d rather look my Maker eye to eye and say…”Well, I gave it my best shot.”
So, today I’m seeing the value in making an effort.