2 Peter 1:2-7
Having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust: God is above and beyond the corruption of this world. It should also be that way with those who are the partakers of the divine nature. The corruption that is in the world expresses itself through lust – the ungodly desires of this world.
But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
Faith +
· Virtue: inherent power of God; moral excellence
· Knowledge: understanding; awareness; education
· Perseverance: continuing course of action with determination; commitment
· Godliness: spiritually virtuous; avoiding sin; morally pure
· Brotherly kindness: caring; thoughtful; tenderness; considerate
· Love: profound and caring affection; care deeply; mercy; devotion
How do we add these things?
Virtue: A matter of decisions. In all we do, we must choose moral, virtuous entertainment, lifestyles, friends—what we watch, hear, read, partake of
Knowledge: Fear the Lord (Prov._1:7); love instruction (Prov 12:1); search for it (Prov 15:14)— it is the honor of kings to search out a matter (Prov. 25:2); receive instruction
Self-control: A matter of decisions; refuse to give in to temptations, compromise, questionable activities, habits, anger
Perseverance: anticipate and accept change; maintain a positive attitude; commit to becoming resilient and courageous; refuse to dwell in the past; focus on joyful things; keep sight of accomplishments
Godliness: Ensure that you are truly born again. Do you remember the day/time of your rebirth? Maintain a constant relationship with God through prayer and studying the Word; Abstain from all appearances of evil; dedicate your life to holy living; carefully choose those you hang with—avoid bad company; guard your thoughts (Phil 4:8); Ask Godly people for prayer and help with temptations.
Brotherly kindness: compliment; be friendly; be gracious; forgive; offer help; listen; pay attention; apologize when needed; be considerate; encourage; pray for others; be honest; keep your word; volunteer; smile; be polite; be helpful
Love: listen; communicate; avoid selfish actions/words; avoid the blame game; keep promises stop complaining and whining; share without expectations; answer without arguing; show trust; make others feel important; make concessions; be tolerant; be useful; maintain eye contact; speak love words