Blog: Max Dawson
March 6, 2017
The seven things I am writing about today are things you already know about. So, why am I taking time with these things? Because you (and I) may have forgotten their importance. They are old things, but can radically transform our lives. They are found in .
The foundation of these seven things is our faith. Our faith acknowledges the facts of the gospel. But it also goes beyond that. It is trust in God. It is believing and doing His will because we know it is right and that it is the best thing for us. Peter says these seven things are to be added to our faith. These are things to pursue.
1. Pursue Virtue: This is about righteousness, excellence in character. We should do right toward others. We build our character on Jesus’ words ().
2. Pursue Knowledge: Not just any knowledge, but that which comes from God. Learn the Bible. Gain patience, comfort and hope from it ().
3. Pursue Self-Control: We can restrain ourselves. We are not animals merely driven by lust. We make choices. We can’t allow sin to rule over us ().
4. Pursue Perseverance: We don’t quit. Victory over sin and this world is never for quitters. Endurance in trials and troubles can refine our faith ().
5. Pursue Godliness: This word doesn’t mean to be god-like. It means reverence for God. We live a life that reflects our reverence for Him ().
6. Pursue Brotherly Kindness: We should be kind to all men, but it is our brethren that we love most and need our kindness most ().
7. Pursue Love: God wants us to cultivate an unconditional love for all people. It is a love that grows out of God’s love for us (). More than a feeling, it is an act of the will. Instead of waiting to feel love for others, decide to act out of love! Love can change the lives of others. But first, it will change your life.
THE FINAL WORD
Lots of folks would like to have a better life. I don’t mean to have more things in life, or to have a new job or bigger house. I mean to be a better person.
Many of us have lost sight of the old things that can make us better. If you look at the seven things above–every one of those things–will make you a better person. You can be happier with yourself! And, most of all, God will be happier with you.
There are no fads here, no popular psychology–no Oprah, Dr. Phil or Steve Harvey. Just simple principles of truth and righteousness as revealed by God. God made us. He knows how to give us a better life. Pursue these things for a better life!
Blessings to you,my growing friends,
–Max