4. “His own glory and goodness . . . ”
Modern Americans have difficulty understanding “glory,” but his glory can impact our life. Most of us don’t even have a category called glory, but Peter urges followers of Jesus to soak in God’s glory the way we might soak in a tub. Does that seem strange to you? Perhaps that’s why we have difficulty trusting in his goodness as well. Yet the testimony of those who have walked with him is: He is good beyond all measure. And better yet, this glory and goodness is directed toward us!
5. “He has given us very great and precious promises . . .”
Do we ever reflect upon his promises? My unscientific opinion is that not one in 10 believers can point to a promise made by Jesus beyond the promise of eternal life. For most, the benefits of a relationship with Jesus are locked up in the age to come. I’m afraid that for most of us, his promises are like autumn leaves. They’re beautiful, but not very useful. But what if we believed there were promises for us to receive today?
6. “So that through them you may participate in the divine nature . . .”
Have you ever reflected on the idea that if you are his child then he wants you to enjoy the family identity as well? We can participate in God’s nature, right here, right now. Part of becoming a child of God is receiving something of his nature. Who knows the full meaning of this Scriptural phrase? Not me, but I’m convinced that whatever it means, it has to be good!
7. “And escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires . . . “
Many believers are trapped into thinking the gospel is only about forgiveness. They see the Christian life as a cycle of sin, forgiveness, followed by more sin. On and on, until we are transported outta here. But the good news is even better. Peter wants us to know we can be set free from the cycle of corruption!
