Guiding Scripture: 2 Peter 1:5-7 ‘For this very reason, 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, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.’
Stair Step Maturity
written by: Torrie Slaughter
There was a time when I would repeatedly run the 139 steps of Monument Terrace. The uphill climb pushed my endurance and increased my physical muscles. However, pounding those cement stairs took a toll on my body, and eventually, I stopped and opted for alternatives. While those options helped keep me in shape, I noticed distinct differences.
Different Platforms
On our stair steps toward spiritual maturity, every next level deepens our understanding of God. That means that accepting the knowledge of God through Jesus results in action. We will not remain complacent or repeat cycles of fear. Why? Because we have integrity, it is challenging to allow fear, doubt, or confusion to rule in our lives.
What are the stair steps Peter refers to, and how can we train ourselves?
By making an effort to add:
- Faith– accepting Jesus as our Savior and living according to His will. Through working out our salvation, we develop obedience while enjoying profound fellowship and life-changing wisdom.
- Knowledge– insight and understanding the ways of our Lord with an intentional awareness of His sovereignty because we know Jesus.
- Self-Control– powers us to overcome sin, and we demonstrate the strength of Jesus working in our lives. That discipline becomes a guiding light for others to witness and draws us closer to our Lord.
- Perseverance– is a distinguishable character trait; no matter how many times we must defend our faith, we will honor God through our actions. (nonconformers to culture)
- Godliness– is the desire to live apart from the bondage of sin, which is a fitting response to the things of God that produce a righteous life.
- Brotherly Affection– an urge to unselfishly seek the best for others and do things for their benefit.
As you read today’s passages, think about your spiritual growth. Are you carefully climbing closer to God?
Prayer: Father, we love your law and meditate on it. Your commands are always with us and make us wise. We grow more insightful with each passing day. Thank you for your Word. Amen.
The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Sunday, November 27, 2022
Daniel 4:1-37, 2 Peter 1:1-21, Psalm 119:97-112, Proverbs 28:17-18
Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan
Torrie is a media ministry consultant who works with churches and faith driven organizations to build their ministry team. She is the Blueprint Specialist uncovering root problems to construct solutions. Want to hear more? Tune in and listen to A Daily Purpose Bible Study & Devotional a podcast by Our Given Purpose and on Fridays to Talking on Purpose with Torrie the Podcast. Torrie also hosts a YouTube channel of the same name.
Amen, we are never lonely living in God. Great post, as always
Thank you