Observation:
This is Peter's last writing before he dies as a martyr. Peter has changed drastically since Christ first called him to be a fisher of men. The once loud, seemingly obnoxious know it all, has been tempered by the love of God. And Peter encourages fellow believes to be tempered in the same way. It is the combination of grace and knowledge that transforms us. Knowledge alone can't do it, we need grace. Peter received incredible grace from Christ and his reaction is to share that grace with others.
Application:
It is easy for us to wrap our minds around growing in knowledge; there is a tangible how-to. We can put a plan together, carve out times, earnestly and persistently seek the truth of God. How do we grow in grace though? Grace is the freely given, unmerited favor of God (dictionary.com). According to Strong's Greek Dictionary, God's grace is in part, "...the merciful kindness by which God, exerting His holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues." So then to growing in grace is all up to God. There is nothing you or I can do about it, accept to ask for more and more of God's grace.
Prayer:
Father, please help me to grow in grace and knowledge of You,bringing You glory in all things and at all times.
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