Text: 2 Peter 1:1–11
Introduction
As we come to the end of the year, many people pause to reflect.
Some are thankful because goals were achieved.
Others are still asking, “God, when will it be my turn?”
This season is not just about new resolutions or new plans.
It is a moment to reflect, reset, and prepare for what lies ahead.
One important truth to remember is this:
Before we can walk with God in the big things, we must learn to walk with Him in the small things.
Even when life feels unclear, like coming to a bend in the road, it does not mean the journey has ended. God is still with us, and His grace has carried us this far.
A Time to Reflect
As believers, the end of the year is a time to reflect:
- Am I growing?
- Am I stagnant?
- Or am I declining?
We cannot remain the same. We are either growing or going backwards.
This season invites us to reflect not only on what we survived, but on who we have become and where God is leading us next.
Past achievements are good, but they should not stop us from moving forward. There is always more ahead in God.
A Great Door Lies Ahead
The Bible reminds us:
“A great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.”
— 1 Corinthians 16:9
There are opportunities ahead, but there will also be challenges.
This past year may have brought unexpected moments, difficult reports, and crossroads.
Yet God’s grace sustained us. The same grace will sustain us in the journey ahead.
Our Foundation: Faith and Grace
2 Peter 1:1–4
Apostle Peter writes to believers who share a precious faith.
This faith is not ordinary; it is a gift from God.
Our Christian life begins and continues by grace, not by personal effort.
Peter reminds us:
- Grace and peace increase through the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
- God has already given us everything we need for life and godliness.
- Through God’s promises, we become partakers of His divine nature.
As we enter a new season, we stand on grace,not guilt.
The past must stay in the past. Our confidence for the future is rooted in Christ, not in circumstances.
Our Responsibility: Spiritual Growth
2 Peter 1:5–7
Peter says, “In view of all this, make every effort…”
God has done His part, but we also have a role to play.
Spiritual growth is not automatic. It is intentional.
Peter lists qualities we must develop:
- Faith – a settled conviction that leads to action
- Goodness – living out what is right
- Knowledge – practical understanding of God’s ways
- Self-control – mastery over desires
- Perseverance – staying faithful under pressure
- Godliness – a life that honours God
- Brotherly affection – Brotherly love; warm, family-like care for fellow believers
- Love – Self-giving, sacrificial love; choosing the good of others regardless of cost.
These qualities are connected. Growth in one supports growth in others.
Why Growth Matters
2 Peter 1:8–11
When we grow spiritually:
- We become productive and useful in our faith
- We avoid spiritual blindness and forgetfulness
- We stand firm and do not fall away
God does not give us what we lack the capacity to handle.
Spiritual maturity prepares us for greater responsibility.
Life will test us, but growth helps us remain steady.
Lessons for the Journey Ahead
- Growth requires effort and discipline.
- God often uses people and situations to train us.
- Challenges are not just burdens; they are preparation.
- Peace comes from within, even when there is pressure outside.
- Gratitude helps us grow and keeps our hearts right.
We must run our own race and stay focused on our calling.
Comparison only distracts us from what God is building in our lives.
Living with Eternal Perspective
Peter reminds believers again and again because life is spiritual and time is passing.
The question is not only what we achieve this year, but what we are building spiritually.
Everything meaningful in life requires preparation.
Spiritual maturity does not happen by accident.
We are called to live intentionally and invest in what lasts beyond this year.
Conclusion
As we stand at the close of the year:
- We look back with gratitude
- We look inward with honesty
- We look forward with hope
- We look upward with trust
God has given us everything we need.
He is calling us to grow, persevere, and finish well.
“Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” – 2 Peter 3:18
The strength for the future comes from knowing God.
As we grow in grace and knowledge, we are prepared for what lies ahead.
