devotion > winning the war of PASSION

Posted In: devotion , War of the Worlds .

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… 2 Peter 1:5-6

The Apostle Peter tells us that we are to add perseverance to self-control if we are going to be fully mature in Christ. Why? Well, the simple answer is, "Because 'stuff' happens." The biblical word for stuff is "trials."

In fact James tells us that in this life we will face "trials of many kinds" (James 1:2). Sorry, I know this is not the happy-face-Christianity that people love to hear about. However, this is a realistic and important truth.

OK...why trials and perseverance? Here is what James says:

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)

The short version is this: in order to be grown-up Christians we must have perseverance, but, perseverance is something that is developed in tough times. There is no such thing as microwave maturity.

Bruce Charlton, a professor in the School of Biology at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, England is one of a growing number of researches that have confirmed that "grown-ups are more immature than ever." He noted for Discovery News in 2006 that this grown-up immaturity includes shorter and shorter attention spans, "sensation and novelty-seeking, short cycles of arbitrary fashion and a sense of cultural shallowness." (Read the full article HERE).

My point is this: contemporary society and even many Christians want quick and easy access to God’s blessings. However, God’s blessing of maturity doesn’t come easily. Maturity in Christ is developed slowly as we walk through life’s trials depending upon God’s grace to sustain us and strengthen us.

PRAYER
Lord, today I will "count it all joy" for the difficulties and challenges that you allow to come in my life because I know that as you sustain me by your grace, I can become the godly person you desire. Help me develop powerful perseverance.

ONE MORE THING...
Please join us this Sunday, November 4, 2007 at 9:00 am 10:30 am as we continue our series, "War of the Worlds". Pastor Mike will be taking an in depth look at 2 Peter 1:3-11 with this week's focus being on the "winning the war of WORSHIP."

Blessings...

P.S. I'd also love to get your comments and questions. You can leave a comment or question by clicking on the thought bubble below. See you on Sunday!