Faith is good, and it is clearly defined in the Bible as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is required for answered prayers (Matthew 21:22) and before one is pleasing to God (Hebrews 11:6). However, faith without virtue is useless. Virtue is good, for without holiness no one will see God (Hebrew 12:14). Yet, virtue without knowledge is destructive. “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” (Hosea 4:6a).
Christians are God’s people through obedient faith in Christ. “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26). We, as “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people” (1 Peter 2:9), should add to our faith virtue and to virtue, knowledge. Knowledge is required in all things for success to smile on us. To break the depths and to permit the clouds to drop down the dew, God employed knowledge. The knowledge of the Holy One, which gives accurate direction and injects meaning to living and life, can be acquired through constant reading of the Bible (John 5:39; 1 Timothy 4:13; 2 Timothy 2:15).
By hearing the inerrant Word of God, we grow in knowledge and in His grace. By careful study of it, we have the intimate and profound power of God. The sincere student of the Gospel who uses the Word daily is insightful and powerful (2 Timothy 1:7). He or she gets power and superb understanding that the world cannot resist. Never fail to attend fellowship regularly and punctually to listen attentively to God’s infallible Word. Don’t engage anyone in side-talk, and don’t allow any person to distract your attention. Absolute concentration in service implies respect, and respect brings blessings. As a child called to inherit blessings (1 Peter 3:9), let your mind and soul be attentive to God’s Word always. “…giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge” (2 Peter 1:5).
