Advent Devotionals: Day 19

December 18th, 2025
by Campus Bible Church Staff

God Gave Us What We Need to be Godly

2 Peter 1:5-8

"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

In this passage Peter explained that God has given us everything we need for life and godliness (v. 3). He has even made us "partakers of the divine nature" (v. 4), which refers to our new birth. Then he continued to say that if we have received new life it should result in spiritual growth. The divine nature should produce Christ-like character.

Peter listed seven virtues or characteristics that should distinguish us as Christians. Meditate on those characteristics. Which ones are the most evident in your life? Are any lacking? Peter says we should "make every effort" to grow as Christians. In fact, he says we should possess these qualities in "increasing measure." If we do that - by God's grace and power - we will live fruitful and productive lives for the glory of God .

Prayer: Father, thank You that You have given us everything we need to live a godly life. Help us to grow and become more like Christ every day.

Posted in Advent Devotionals
Posted in Advent Devotionals