Devotionals

Lacking These Qualities?

by Michael Edwards 
07/27/14
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Lacking These Qualities? - by Michael Edwards

"For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten... " (2 Peter 1:9 ESV) 

The Bible says I should display these qualities: virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.  However, I often lack them. 

The enemy takes full advantage of my lacking by pointing out my failures. This can lead me to feel like I am under condemnation, something that the Bible clearly tells us we are no longer under (John 3:18, Rom 8:2). Not possessing these qualities on a regular basis has even led Satan to suggest that I am not saved.

In the past, I have often tried harder to achieve these qualities through the works of the flesh. When I have failed, this only left me further frustrated. 

Then I read 2 Peter 1:9 and finally noticed a very important part that I purposely left out when quoting the verse above. It does not go on to say I lack these qualities because I have not tried hard enough or that I am lost. It says I lack these qualities because I have forgotten something extremely important. 

"For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins." (2 Peter 1:9 ESV) 

So it is not by my efforts that these qualities will manifest. They are not works of the flesh, they are fruits of the spirit. We are all forgiven much, and that is something we must not forget.

When we believe God's word about our complete forgiveness in Christ, God tells us clearly that virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love will be produced in our lives. 

The Bible tells us that those who believe they are forgiven much, love much in Luke 7:47. Love is the spirit of ALL of God's laws and only thing that can fulfill ALL of God's laws. (Gal 5:14, Rom 13:8-10) When we walk in the spirit, the letter of the law will not even see you. 

Do you see these qualties in your life? If they are lacking, no matter what you may claim to believe, God's word says you have doubts about your sins being completely forgiven in Christ. 

It is always right believing that leads to right living. 

Read Gravity – True For You But Not For Me for free on Amazon. Great book to email to a lost friend or a believer who is struggling with doubts.