Okay, so yesterday I posted “Recipe for a GoOD Life” and invited you to stay tuned for two more postings regarding this “recipe” from 2 Peter 1:5-9.
Here’s part two:
“8 If all these things are in you and growing, you will never fail to be useful to God. You will produce the kind of fruit that should come from your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:8
What things are “in you”? Well, that would be faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, patience, devotion to God, kindness, and love.
You may say, “That’s a lot!” Yes, but when you have Christ in your heart, all that is IN you. You’ve got to do something to flourish and cultivate it.
Notice that in verse eight it says that “if all these things are in you AND growing”. Just like a seed you plant, you must water and fertilize it in order for it to grow into the beautiful plant/flower/crop you hoped that it would become. God desires for you to grow and become a beautiful creature. He doesn’t only want you to be beautiful, but productive.
Here’s some fertilizer for you: Commit yourself to have time in God’s word, worship with Christian songs, fellowship with other believers, have quality time chatting it up with Jesus, and listen to His voice.
So what will happen when you grow in your knowledge and love for God? You’ll be useful!
In the NIV translation, verse 8 reads, “For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Throughout God’s word it warns us about being a slacker/lazy and ineffective. When you asked Jesus into your heart (and I sure hope and pray that you have) your life changed, you were filled with Christ, and made ready to serve Him. (Click on those links to see scripture back it up.)
Being unproductive is NOT what your Heavenly Father wants from you. He wants you to be functional for Him.
Oh sure, there will be times when we may question our productiveness or wonder if we’re being useful to God, at least I know I do. Take those moments to allow that “patience” to grow in you and to seek Him with all your heart. Remember, His timing is different than ours. You make sure you are staying fertilized, and then one day you’ll see the fruition of your efforts.
I pray many blessings and much joy for you! Have a wonderful day. – Stephanie
