Scripture Focus
2 Peter 1:9 (ESV): “For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins.”
Devotional Thought
The Apostle Peter warns against spiritual blindness, which occurs when believers fail to cultivate Christ-like qualities in their lives. In 2 Peter 1:5–7, he outlines nine essential traits: diligence, faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. These qualities reflect the character of Christ and are to be evident in every believer’s life.
Spiritual blindness often results from neglecting growth in these areas. When Christians lack these attributes, they lose sight of what Christ has accomplished for them through His sacrifice. Forgetting that they have been cleansed from their sins leads to complacency and ineffective living.
Peter urges believers to be diligent in making their “calling and election sure” (2 Peter 1:10). The Church of Christ teaches that obedience to God’s Word is essential, not as a means of earning salvation but as evidence of a living and active faith. James 2:17 (ESV) states, “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” True faith produces fruit.
God has called us to a fruitful life, reflecting His nature and glory. If we are not actively growing in the attributes Peter lists, we risk becoming spiritually stagnant and blind to our own weaknesses. Jesus Christ saved us so we could grow to be more like Him, demonstrating His love and truth to the world.
Practical Application
Pursue Spiritual Growth – Make a conscious effort to develop the qualities listed in 2 Peter 1:5–7. Study God’s Word daily and apply its teachings to your life. “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
Examine Yourself – Reflect on your spiritual progress regularly. Ask yourself if you are growing in faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5).
Commit to Obedience – Submit to the authority of Jesus Christ as Lord of your life. Acknowledge Him not only as Savior but as King who guides and directs your steps. “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” (Luke 6:46).
Reflection
Are there areas in your life where pride has crept in? Have you been tempted to take credit for what God has blessed you with? Like King Uzziah, we must remember that success and strength are gifts from God, not personal achievements. Take a moment to repent of any prideful attitudes and renew your commitment to live humbly before God.