In this letter we hear the voice of Peter, restored to being “a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ.” (See April 18.) Peter states plainly that he has received a precious faith. And it’s not just his; others enjoy it too. He adds a greeting of “grace and peace” that comes only “through the knowledge of God and of Jesus.” This is the result of God’s Spirit at work, and Peter knows it.

The Canons of Dort explain that rebirth and restoration to life in Christ are entirely God’s work. Though our will may be spiritually dead and lost in sin, the Spirit of God “revives, heals, reforms, and— in a manner at once pleasing and powerful—bends it back.” As a result, we want to grow in obedience to God rather than resisting God’s will.

Noting that God “has given us everything we need for a godly life,” Peter urges his listeners to build on their faith with the spiritual fruit of goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual friendship, and love. Of course, growing in all these qualities is possible only by the work of God’s Spirit in us, and in these ways we will continue to grow in knowing our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Our Lord wants us to know him and to grow to be like him fully. In what ways do you see the Spirit of God changing and regenerating you?