If we listed the things we believe are most important in the life of a Christian, we'd likely say it was to evangelize, baptize and disciple those who are lost. But the real answer is to personally grow in maturity through God's grace and with knowledge of God's word. For without these things, we'll be unable to do the other things God expects us to do.

It goes against conventional ecclesiastical thinking, but the reason most churches don't accomplish much these days, is not because they fail to send enough missionaries or give enough money to the effort. No, we as the body of Christ fail to accomplish very much because too many of us are anemic, or spiritually weak. Peter says our main mission should be to grow in the grace of God and filled with knowledge of His word and will. But we've endorsed the lie that it's ok to ignore that if you give enough money for someone else to do it.

The interesting thing about those who disagree with Peter on this issue, is that they do the same thing the apostle warned about in his day. They're ignorant of God's word, distort the truth for sake of personal gain and then from a leadership position lead younger believers astray. (Vs.16-17)

To understand grace, we need to realize what grace is. Grace comes from God when we're in trouble, designed to lift us up and point us in the right direction. But to grow in grace means we must receive it and learn from our error. I'm sorry, but that's where we have a big problem! Too many of us fail to admit we have a problem, and we never see the need of God's grace. Then, when it does come, we think it was something we deserved, thereby robbing God of the glory.

If you want to see God's grace, then take your eyes off your problem and fix your eyes on God. When you do, you'll not only see grace, but you'll see other things that come with it: God's mercy, forgiveness, long-suffering, patience and enduring love. Now that you know what grace looks like, why not thank God for it? God's grace is truly amazing, isn't it?

1 Developed from Read the Bible Thru ( Dn. 6:1-28 2 Pt. 3:1-18 Ps. 119:132-155 Pr. 28:21-22 )
2. Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society

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