2 Peter 3:11
“Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness.”
From the day that Jesus called out to Peter, “Come and follow Me,” Peter’s spiritual walk grew increasingly effective. His was a faith repeatedly forged in the fire, making him battle-ready for the days in which he lived; days very much like our own. I believe we’re each called to live with this type of faith. And I think if Peter were here today, he would nod his head in agreement. A bold statement? Maybe. But consider this…
Valor and virtuousness share the same root in the Hebrew language and are defined as those who exhibit godly strength and substance of character and goals. In the Old Testament, valor designated an elite warrior as honorable and able, whether he tended flocks, judged the people or fought Israel’s enemies. We also see women such as Esther, Deborah, and Ruth, who chose the uncompromising paths of the LORD rather than the world from which they came. Each demonstrate the characteristics of a virtuous woman.
In addition, our faith is victorious. The Gospel teaches of man’s individual freedom from the bonds of this world, but more importantly, a release from sin and the power of the grave. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.” (John 11:26) Believer, is your life wrapped up in the truth that Christ conquered sin and death and sits enthroned in heaven? We’re free to step out and live courageously in His victory! It’s true that the triumph of the Cross bids New Testament saints to live boldly, but God has always called His people to radically identify with Him.
Man or woman, God is not a respecter of persons. He’ll use any of His people who are willing to have their faith challenged and forged, being made steadfast and immovable; founded upon Christ alone. We may not be called to battle an invading army, but the unrelenting forces of evil from outside the Church and the dangerous doctrines from within require us to live godly, ready, and victorious in Christ.
Valiant. Virtuous. Victorious. I pray that the world is able to look at each of us and say, “Wow. Look what you’ve become.”
– Pastor Jack
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