“For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith…” II Peter 1:5
Twice in II Peter 1 we read the words, “Make every effort.” For me, these words took on great meaning. I will get to this meaning in a moment. But first I want to give you a quote from the a new study Bible that was recently released. The Bible is called, “The Gospel Transformation Bible.” Here is a quote, “The Gospel is not opposed to effort but to earning.” You and I cannot earn our salvation. But once we have received salvation we are to make every effort to grow in the new life we have in Christ.
As I read II Peter 1, I came away with a great longing to make every effort to grow in my faith. Peter’s desire was to leave behind such a witness that all who would come behind him would desire the same. Here is what he said, “I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.”
Think it through:
Have you and I made every effort in our walk with Christ? A few weeks ago, while in Malawi Africa, the missionary said this, “Even though I am on the mission field, I still need to grow in my faith.” Every believer needs to make every effort.”
Helpful ways to make every effort:
1. Be thankful for the possession of faith, Vs: 1
2. Praise God for the new nature that gives us the ability to grow, Vs:3-4
3. Daily seek growth in the qualities that accompany the new nature, Vs: 5-11
Spend time discovering what they are!!!
4. Study God’s Word every day so that you will know how to grow, Vs: 16-21
As we look at these helpful ways to make every effort we realize we have everything we need to grow in life and godliness. Father help me to be thankful for each and every quality you have given us. May, we all make every effort to grow in our faith!