Peter taught that when we place our trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins, we receive everything we need to live a victorious life; "so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires" 2 Peter 1:4. The real challenge of our Christian walk is not in acquiring new and "greater" gifts, but in learning how to best utilize what we have already received.
Peter also wanted us to remember that Salvation is not the end of our journey; rather, it is the beginning of a long and wonderful walk which begins in faith and continues by growing ever closer to Christ. Since we have been given such a wonderful gift, we should "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" 2 Peter 1:5-7. We must continue to grow such that the end result - the highest quality of our Christian life - is love!
Peter believed these to be fundamental truths, but truths which were necessary to often repeat!
"So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live." 2 Peter 1:12-13
To ensure we don't wander down side paths filled with self-effort and self-importance, or stumble in the world's temptation of corruption and evil desires, we must continually return to the starting point of our faith.
We must never forget that God loves us and desires to walk with us each and every day. All that we do must be directed by God and accomplished with the tools He has provided. Let's dig deep at every opportunity, but let's remain lovingly close to His side and always remember the basics.
-steve troxel
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