As we have discussed the qualities we are to possess as Christians, we have emphasized the fact that faith is the starting point. All of the characteristics must be based upon faith; otherwise, these traits will be manifested in ways that are contrary to God’s will. Whether or not this matters to us will depend on our attitude toward God, which is the point of the next characteristic in Peter’s list – godliness.
“Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-8).
