Intention and Attention

Scripture – 2 Peter 3:17-18: 17Therefore, 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. 18But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

Reflection: As we come to end of 2 Peter, this final instruction is plain and simple. Growing in the grace and knowledge of Christ is a continuing process for me. It’s something I need to pay attention to daily. It doesn’t come naturally. It takes intention and attention.

That’s not to say it’s not enjoyable. Some days, yes, it is hard. But most of the time it’s interesting and fun to learn more about who Christ is – to explore the meaning of discipleship at greater depths – to take risks of faith as I learn to trust Him more and more. Growing in Him continues to enrich my life and my whole experience of life.

However, if I don’t pay attention and act with intention, I start getting carried away by error-filled teachings of the culture around me. That’s what comes naturally. And that will always lead me into trouble.

So today I’ll keep my focus on Christ, I’ll learn from Him even as I learn about Him. “To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”