2 Peter - Know the Truth
Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction. Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen.
Several weeks ago, I had an unfortunate experience during my morning workout. I am a member at a gym, and I participate in group workouts every time I go. As a matter of fact, I've been participating in group exercise classes since my mid-20's. Let's just say that's a long time. :)
This particular morning several weeks ago, we were wrapping up the cardio strength portion of our workout, and it was timed. As the timer was approaching ZERO, I had 10 more cardio reps that I needed to do in order to perfectly complete the plan. If you've never done a group exercise class, you need to know that no instructor ever has required perfect completion of the day's workout plan. It's YOUR workout, so you work as you're able. On this particular morning, with very few seconds left on the clock, something crazy happened in my brain. In a split second, I determined that I had to double time the quick steps to my bench in order to get them all in. Just as quickly, my toe caught on the bench (because of my rush), I lost my footing, and crashed to the ground.
Please don't worry. My ego was bruised but nothing else was injured. I laughed it off and moved on to our cool down and stretch. I learned a lesson, though. I learned that I need to be thoughtful and intentional in the gym. Just because I've been doing this thing a long time doesn't mean catastrophe isn't just around the corner if I get into a rush and misstep.
Please read verse 1 Peter 3:17 in The Message Version,
But you, friends, are well-warned. Be on guard lest you lose your footing and get swept off your feet by these lawless and loose-talking teachers.
See, I think the message of 2 Peter is slow down! God is never rushed, and He is quite alright with a process. We are the ones that decide life should happen quicker, change should come faster, and growth should be seen in a hurry. We will lose our footing, girls. Pain and embarrassment are likely consequences.
Now, maybe that's a simplistic version of what Peter is talking about. But, I think it's key. If we are going to know the Truth in a way that guards our hearts and minds, patience will truly be a virtue. Slowing down will allow us to study, to guard our hearts, to be diligent in searching the scripture, and to analyze the messages we are listening to. Being intentional in relationship with Jesus is a safeguard.
Peter said, grow in grace and understanding of our Master and Savior, Jesus Chirst. Glory to the Master now and forever! Yes! (verse 18)
This is a process, and we are in it for life! The result of growing in grace with Jesus is GLORY to God. When we cooperate with Christ and His plan we get to give glory to God. Others see that! We get to help point those around us to the One that can give them in the same grace and truth.
What a joy!
What a privilege!
Do I need to tell you that I never play beat the timer in cardio/strength anymore? Nope! I learned a lesson. Crashing to the ground in the middle of a class and surrounded by many others teaches a strong lesson.
I believe Peter knew we'd learn spiritual lessons the same way. Well, Peter learned them the same way. He crashed a time or two himself, learned from them, and then trusted Christ's Word even more.
Peter chose to end his letter with these words, and I believe they are a fitting ending for our study as well (verses 14 and 15 from The Message),
So, my dear friends, since this is what you have to look forward to (new heaven and new earth), do your very best to be found living at your best, in purity and peace. Interpret our Master's patient restraint for what it is: salvation.
God, help us to know Your Truth in a way that urges us to slow down, walk with intentionality, and study Your Word fervently. If we rush through it, we will lose our footing. We will fall. We could begin to focus on the wrong things or trust the wrong people. I'm so thankful for your patience. I want to follow Your lead and proceed with caution. We do not need to fear, but we can be careful. With our eyes fixed on You, we cannot be swayed. So, we ask you to do it, Lord! Strengthen us by Your Word. Your Word is Truth.
