Participant in the divine nature. - What a wonderful thing it is to have that precious faith in Jesus.
I read yesterday the first Chapter of 2 Peter.
I've read it before. The evidence is verses underlined, words highlighted, and notes in the margin.
The highlighted words are "self-control" and "perseverance." My note in the margin for these two words is:
two of the hardest in [this] day and age
That section of scripture is 2 Peter 1:5-9:
“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, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is short-sighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.” (NIV)
It's familiar, I've underlined it on two separate occasions because it's important to me.
I read it again, yesterday, and thought about how I've attempted to follow this instruction over the years and how I've failed to follow them on occasions too.
And those years suddenly became real to me. Here I was holding in my hands that Word of God which I've held for most of my life. Unlike me, it's been unchanging, unerring, and uncompromisingly holy and righteous.
Perhaps like me, my Bible is well worn. It's gone with me most everywhere and it shows on the outside and the inside.
The leather is cracking, split, and frayed. The pages tell of liquid stains, dirty fingers, and stray pens.
I carried this Word of God by hand, in book bags, or briefcases through primary school, college, work, and leisure.
Looking at it yesterday, I realized I love it in a way that is hard for me to define. Over time that love has grown, deepened, and matured, and I am assured this will continue to be the course of my relationship with this Word which is sharper than a double-edged sword.
I didn't realize just how much time I'd spent journeying with this Book until I thought to turn to the front and read the inscription from my parents.
We give this to you, Hal, today, December 25, 1984, in celebration of our Lord's birthday. This is the most important tool you can own for giving you direction and guidance in life. Study it and let God lead you in applying His Word to your life.
Did ever two parents give a greater gift?
Almost twenty years. How amazingly wonderful to me. The Lord is so good, so gracious.
I look forward with longing to another two decades seeking direction and guidance from this cherished Book.
