Daily Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 1:8-9 KJV
2 Peter 1:8-9 KJV
(8) For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(9) But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
Today’s Devotional Is CURE FOR SHORT VISITIONS
This is the idea of extravagant spending, as it is associated with the term translated “Supply” (2Pe_1_5-11). One of the oldest customs in Greece was to provide entertainments for the public, as a sign of goodwill towards society. This was done in honor of generals who had returned from war. The cost was not borne by the wealthy, who were more likely to give their permission than in modern times.
The Apostle said, “See to it that you spare not cost in the glory provision of these things; spare neither thought nor painfuls, if only those Christian graces are within you and abound.” There will be a great deal of Heavenly hospitality for you. You won’t be alone in the Heavenly City. You will receive a choral and procesional greeting. You won’t enter the port looking like a waterlogged vessel. Instead, you will arrive with all your sails up and colours flying! (2Pe_1:11.)
These graces are in the right order. Each grace is found in the other, just like Chinese boxes that contain many smaller ones. The one marked Faith should be opened to reveal manly courage; knowledge should then be revealed; self-control should include patience; Godliness towards God should be a part of patience towards men; then, brotherly love will be found and we can finally find Love!
The Apostle said that people who are lacking “these things” tend to be shortsighted. They see only the world and not the eternal. Jud_1:20-24 warns us in the tenth verse that a careful culture of these items in the heart will keep us from falling in the outward world. Many people wait until they feel good before they can act well. The Divine method is to follow Christ’s lead and trust that He will provide the grace you need.
PRAYER for Today
O Most Merciful Father! Accept this renewed devotion that we give to Thee of our bodies, souls, spirits, and ourselves. We pray that we can be like Jesus: pure and unfiled, gentle and meek, patient, thankful, and patient. AMEN.