Wandering Crusader #284 Not So Simple Addition

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

It is human nature to want to do great things, to feel like we’ve made a difference in this world. No one may feel this desire greater than a new convert to Christianity. Though he may hear endless sermons telling him he’s not saved by baptism, communion, or works of any kind, the desire never really goes away.

There’s nothing wrong, egocentric, or unspiritual about the desire to do great things for Christ. The trouble is with the manner in which we pursue the desire. Greatness, even when thrust upon a person, doesn’t happen all at once. It is a lifetime pursuit and, as Peter points out, is a matter of addition. The Christian life is built precept upon precept, line upon line, here a little, there a little. Salvation comes in a moment, like a bolt of lightning. Discipleship is a lifetime of obedience.

The greatest skill anyone can acquire in life is simply to show up every day. It’s a skill that’s almost been lost, yet it is the key to great things. To obey the voice of God is greater than any sacrifice or any act of contrition. It is the greatest act a person can do.

Every act of obedience to God is great in His eyes. Obedience is God’s desire for Man. Sadly, it is contrary to our nature and the desires of our flesh. To choose Him against such opposition takes courage, strength, and resolve. It is the ultimate act of fidelity and honor.

All may not be called to the office of an apostle, prophet, or teacher, but all are called to hear and obey the voice of God. To hear and obey the word “Pray” is as great an accomplishment as it is to hear and obey the command to “Raise the dead”.

Maranatha