Scripture
His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. By these he has given us very great and precious promises, so that through them you may share in the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world because of evil desire.(2 Peter 1:3–4, CSB)
Thoughts
There is so much to understand in these two verses! I will try to break it down –hopefully, without complicating it.
Sometimes in this fallen world we feel that God is holding us back from success. Is that true and biblical? First, we have to look at the passage and ask what God’s divine power has done. God’s power has granted to us everything we need for life and godliness. What? Yes! True life and true godliness have been given to us by his divine power. Wait. Really? I have everything required for life and godliness? Yes, that’s right. But how can this be? We receive these things as we get to know the one “who called us by his own glory and excellence.”
Then Peter says, “By these he has given us very great [magnificent] and precious promises.” This is a significant point. God’s promises are both precious and magnificent. These words can also be translated honored and great. Why has God given these amazing promises to us? So that through them we may share in God’s divine nature. Let me repeat that. God gave us these promises so that we can partake (from the ESV translation) of his nature. Practically speaking, what is partaking of his divine nature? Paul says we are escaping the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
So, back up the wagon. In order to escape sinful desires, we must realize three things. One, that God’s divine power has granted us everything we need for life and godliness; two, that God has given us his precious and magnificent promises; and three, that through those promises we can share in God’s nature.
Application
In your relationships, do you need to escape your sinful desires? Start by thanking God for giving you everything you need to be godly. Then, partake of his Word. Make sure that you honor his Word as both great and precious. Perhaps you already think of God’s Word as great, but be sure to engage your heart, too, so that his Word also becomes precious to you.
As you begin to partake of his promises, here is a good place to start:
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:36, ESV)
Prayer
Lord, thank you for granting me everything I need to live for you. I’m in awe of your promises! They truly are both great and precious. . . . Continue praying.