As we have studied through
this second letter of the apostle Peter, we have learned by eight
characteristics a model for growing in our relationship with God the
Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. We have been encouraged to
understand that we have been given
“divine power” and “exceeding great and precious
promises” where by we may obtain the divine nature, and Peter
has told us that he will not be negligent to remind us of these
things. In chapter one and verse thirteen we learn how long Peter
expected to remind people of these principles. We read:
Yes,
I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up
by putting you in remembrance;
The
verse begins, “Yes, I think it meet, as long as I am in
this tabernacle” Peter
declares that he thinks it is “meet”
which means “upright, righteous, virtuous, keeping the commands of
God” to remind his readers of the things he has written. He uses
the establishing and emphatic word “Yes”
as though he was resolving within himself that this was the proper
and righteous thing to do. He also makes us aware of the time limits
to his reminding, “ as long as I am in this tabernacle”
which means as long as he was
living in his “tent” or his earthly temporary body Peter would
declare these truths. Peter knew that his dwelling on Earth was
temporary, and as long as he was dwelling in his temporary body on
Earth, Peter would share the doctrine of fellowship with God with
everyone available to him.
The
verse continues, “to stir you up by putting you
in remembrance;” Peter's idea
was to “stir up”
which means “to wake up, awaken, arouse (from sleep)” or “render
active” those to whom he wrote. By sharing over and over again the
way to grow in their relationship with God the Father and Jesus
Christ, Peter expected that lethargy and apathy to the principles of
growth would be non-existent, and their lives would be active in
their relationship with God. Peter saw it as imperative that he
continue reminding them of these things until the day he died.
How
much resolve do we have to share the principles of the kingdom of
God? Do we encourage others in their walk with the Lord? Have we like
Peter purposed in our hearts to remind our children, grand-children,
friends and family of the “divine power”
and “exceeding great and precious promises”
that are given to those who believe? Perhaps as we think through this
verse we will take on the same firmness of spirit that Peter has
exhibited, and may the Lord give us the courage to continue sharing
these things with others until our earthly tent be dissolved.
Next
time we will see something special that Peter knew, so read ahead,
and we shall join together then.
Until
tomorrow...there is more...
Look
for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From
Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want
to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ;
www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at
www.mrzlc.com/bookstore
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