Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance. (2 Peter 1:5–6)
The family across the street recently had a new roof put on. I watched as the roofers first tore off all the old shingles, underlayment, and rotted decking boards before installing new felt paper, the sheathing deck boards that make up the skeleton of the roof, then shingles, ridge vents, and flashing, before waterproofing and sealing the roof. The new roof would now provide strength and stability to the house and protection for the inhabitants.
This process should remind us of the ways we are told to add the components God designed as means to refurbish and rebuild the foundation of our godly lives. Goodness, or godliness, is the foundation; knowledge is obtained by becoming intimately familiar with the Word of God; and confirming ourselves to our new state and actively pursuing a desire to obtain Christlikeness all provide layers of security and protection. All these character qualities form the underpinnings of the highest trait—love for others.
Like a roof, these pieces are not randomly applied, but ordered to strengthen the foundation that has been stripped and prepared for us. These character attributes emulate Christ’s life as an example for believers and help us to recognize the false knowledge around us to pursue the truth. Each piece contributes to the whole until the finished “roof” becomes the protective covering on godly lives.
Examine your “roof” in pursuit of Christian character.
Susan Gordon lives in Wadsworth, Ohio, where she enjoys biking, walking, serving as a County Parks volunteer, and making memories with her husband, children, and grandchildren.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
