SCRIPTURE:
“Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”
2 Peter 3:17-18
OBSERVATION:
In the beginning of the chapter, Peter shares a reminder of encouraging holy and Godly thoughts, and remembering the words of the prophets and Jesus through the apostles that in the last days they would not be led astray by naysayers and therefore put themselves in harms way when the Lord returns. These naysayers would point out what appears to be unfulfilled prophecy and events. He continues that although the Lord is patient, the day of the Lord will come swiftly like a thief in the night.
Thus, scriptures 17 & 18 prompt us to be on guard; not to be led astray by lawless and ungodly men disguised in their appearance, words and relationships.
They often will be articulate in speech and convincing in presenting their case of scoffing at prophecy, events and our very doctrine and beliefs. Instead we must continue to grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that we will be ready and waiting for His return.
APPLICATION:
Peter’s reminder is very relative to us today, as we in fact do not know when the Lord will return. Furthermore, distractions, diversions and philosophies counter to the Lord and his Word are more prevalent then ever. We need to be and stay focused.
We have articulated and powerful men in government, politics, the corporate world who look good as they speak about worldly and corporate matters. We have powerful secular men and products like Steve Jobs and Apple technology that sweep our minds to be consumed with things of the world. However, are these the role models we are called to follow in relation to our faith? We currently are so caught up in the cost of fuel, the cost of living and the economy.
If these things cause us to turn to God … great! If not, oh, oh! We are falling exactly into the mindset of what Peter is prompting us not to … keep our focus on God, growing in His word and His grace. What does this mean? Being sure that our minds are guarded and filled with His Word and Spirit. How do we do this? Spending time in devotions with Him and His Word, serving Him rather than mammon and surrounding us with people and matters of Christ.
It is such a delicate process to uproot and replant a plant. So, to, it is tough to replant ourselves back and forth between the world and His kingdom on earth … time with Him, in his Word and amongst our brothers and sisters in Christ, serving Him.
PRAYER:
Lord, please keep me focused and not distracted by lawless men or things of the world, that may subtly divert my attention, focus and heart on you.
