By Andrew Williams
“This letter is from Simon Peter, a slave and apostle of Jesus Christ. I am writing to you who share the same precious faith we have. This faith was given to you because of the justice and fairness of Jesus Christ, our God and Savior.” 2 Peter 1:1 (NLT)
Good morning fellow disciples.
In the opening of his second letter, Simon Peter reminds us of the incredible gift of faith. Peter, a prominent apostle who walked with Jesus, humbly refers to himself as both a “slave” and “apostle” of Christ, acknowledging his ultimate submission to Jesus and his role as a messenger of the Gospel. What stands out most is Peter’s declaration that the faith shared by his readers is the same “precious faith” that he himself possesses.
This faith is not based on human effort or merit but is a gift given through the justice and fairness of Jesus Christ, our God and Savior. Here, Peter emphasizes the equality of all believers in Christ. Whether an apostle who walked with Jesus or a new believer hearing the Gospel for the first time, our faith is of equal value. It is grounded in the righteousness of Christ, not in our own works, and unites us all as part of God’s family.
Peter’s words compel us to cherish our faith as a precious gift and to recognize that all believers—regardless of background, title, or experience—stand equally before God through Jesus Christ.
This verse empowers us to see the immeasurable worth of our faith and reminds us that it is equally available to all who believe in Christ. It redirects our focus from feelings of inadequacy or comparison with others to the justice and fairness of Jesus, who has given us this gift of faith. Whether we feel like seasoned leaders or struggling newcomers, we are reminded that our faith is equally precious and rooted in the perfect righteousness of our Savior. This truth frees us from pride or insecurity and allows us to walk confidently in the grace of God.
This week, reflect on the preciousness of your faith. Take time to thank Jesus for the gift He has given you, acknowledging that it is not based on your own efforts but on His justice and fairness. Additionally, seek to encourage another believer by reminding them of the value of their faith, whether they are new to the journey or have been walking with Christ for years. Redirect your focus from comparing your faith journey to others and instead celebrate the shared gift of faith that unites all who believe in Jesus.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the precious gift of faith. I am humbled and grateful to know that my faith is equally valuable in Your eyes, not because of anything I have done, but because of Your justice and fairness. Redirect my focus from comparing myself to others or feeling inadequate, and remind me that my faith is grounded in Your righteousness. Help me to cherish this gift and encourage others to embrace the treasure of their faith as well. I commit to walking confidently in the grace You have given me. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
