His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of the sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 1.3-8 (ESV)
Chris Tiegreen taught this scripture today in his devotional, “Salt and Light.” Most days, I am affected by what I read in the Bible and devotions by several authors, but today’s lesson stirred a profound sense that I need to step up my game. Or, as Chris Tiegreen wrote, “Bring it all to the table!” We receive a new life when we first accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. And, we receive gifts and promises that come along with that decision. The Holy Spirit indwells us, and we get the promise of eternal life. We also get to partake in God’s divine nature.
How do we share in God’s divine nature? Peter writes in the above scripture verses that we participate by growing in the qualities of God. Do not assume we will ever be God, but we can grow to be like God by developing the qualities Peter presents in verses 5, 6, and 7. My Bible (ESV Study Bible) notes that all the virtues listed are results of faith, so faith is listed first, while love (the ultimate outcome of faith) is listed last.
I have lived on the other side of God’s divine nature for most of my life. Pursuing life with money and possessions was my goal for far too long. I am thankful for teachers like Chris Tiegreen, who teach me the importance of seeking a true treasure. I desire to be effective and fruitful in my walk with the Lord, so I have a new goal – to grow in my divine nature and leave the past behind. Seeking and growing in God’s divine virtues gives me a better understanding of eternity. And, guess what? I am already living that eternal life. It is God’s promise! Amazing!
