The psalmist writes that the earth and everything in it is the Lord’s. (Psalm 24:1-2) Peter writes that we have been granted everything we need to use the earth for God’s will. (2 Peter 1:3-4) Reading through 2 Peter, we find that “everything” to be knowledge.
Peter shows us:
- that knowledge is found in his promises ( 2 Peter 1:2-4)
- that knowledge is for our growth (2 Peter 1:5-11)
- that knowledge needs to be taught and remembered (2 Peter 1:12-15)
- That knowledge comes from credible sources (2 Peter 1:16-21)
The Psalmist asks “who will ascend the hill of the Lord?” then he answers “Clean hands and a pure heart.” (Psalm 24:3-4)
Peter shows us the “Christian Graces,” the things that can grow in a pure heart minded with clean hands. (2 Peter 1:5-7) We are to supply our faith with these things. When you read the verse notice how you need one to get the other:
- Virtue – this is the kind of courage we need in today’s world as much as they needed in Peter’s time
- Knowledge – continuing study of God’s word
- Self-Control – everyone can use more of it
- Patience – take advantage of challenges to learn this
- Godliness – honoring God’s duties as a top priority
- Brotherly kindness – a basic affection for fellow man
- Love – this is an all-inclusive love. The desire to serve everyone
With these things in our life we become fruitful. We notice in 2 Peter 1:8 that big word “if.” They are not automatic and have to be worked on. That is what David was telling us when he said it was for those that seek him. (Psalm 24:6)
We have the knowledge. We can hold it in our hands. We need to use our clean hands, our pure heart, and the knowledge before us to seek God continuously.
Daily Reading for August 26
Psalm 24
1 Samuel 13
Lamentations 4
2 Peter 1:1-11
August 26, 2013
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