A Pause to Ponder God's Word
"Everything We Need"

Have you ever caught yourself saying something like, "if only I had a stronger will then I could live for Jesus more faithfully?" Have you ever thought that you just don't have the right personality to exemplify godliness or that you needed more power to live a righteous life? Many Christians struggle attempting to live a godly life by their own strength and resources. It doesn't take long to realize that this is an impossibility. Not one of us has the strength or resources to live the holy life God has called us to live. But it is not hopeless! Nor is it impossible! Look at this: "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness." (2 Peter 1:3) No, you didn't read it incorrectly. God has given us everything we need to live the holy life He has made and called us to live - everything we need!

We cannot stop here for the verse continues, "through our knowledge of Him who called us, by His own glory and goodness." The word "knowledge" in this verse denotes knowing someone in relationship. When we come to Christ we enter into relationship. Through this saving, life giving relationship we not only have new life, we also are given everything we need to live the new life. This verse tells us that in Christ we can claim the "very great and precious promises" as our own and we "participate in the divine nature." By drawing upon these we "can escape the corruption in the world." Rejoice beloved! What we can never do ourselves, God enables us to do! His power, His promises, and His very nature are ours in Christ!

Wait! We cannot stop yet. Verse 5 directs us "for this very reason make every effort to add to your faith...." The implied object of this directive is "you." Each of us is to make every effort. God's grace calls and enables us to respond to His love and provisions. We are participants in the saving event. Granted, we are able to respond only by His grace. Nevertheless, we are to make every effort - to draw upon His grace and act accordingly.

It has become popular in recent years for Christians to claim the slogan, "we're not perfect, just forgiven." As true as this slogan may be, it is often used as an excuse for unrighteous behavior. This verse, though contextually is a word of encouragement to a persecuted church, also confronts such incorrect thinking. We may not be perfect, but this is no excuse, for we have been "given everything we need for life and godliness." If we fall short, confession and accepting forgiveness is the righteous act, not making excuses.

Beloved, let us draw upon God's abundant provisions. Through Christ we have power, His promises, and participate in His nature. We have everything we need for life and godliness!

Keep Close To Jesus
Pastor Gerry


A Pause To Ponder God's Word is written and distributed by Gerald Whetstone, Ordained Elder and teacher in the Church of the Nazarene. These devotionals may be transmitted, duplicated, used in part or in entirety without permission for nonprofit purposes only. Responses welcome. To Subscribe Click Here.
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