“Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace” (2 Peter 3:14 ESV).
The apostle Peter wrote this letter to believers scattered throughout Asia Minor, urging them to stand firm amid false teaching. In this verse, he addressed them tenderly as “beloved,” reminding them of the certainty of Christ’s return and the coming of the new heavens and new earth. Knowing these future realities, Peter exhorted his readers to respond with diligence. Rather than living carelessly, they were to eagerly strive to live in such a way that, when Christ appeared, they would be found “without spot or blemish,” language that contrasted them with the corrupt false teachers he had previously described. Furthermore, he instructed them to be “at peace,” pointing not only to peace with God through Christ but also to peaceful living in harmony with others. Peter’s emphasis was that an assured hope in Christ’s return should motivate holy living in the present.
Because we are certain that Christ will return and make all things new, we must not live with complacency but with urgency. We live in a world that tempts us to become distracted or indifferent, yet knowing that our Lord could come at any moment should inspire us to pursue holiness and walk in peace. Rather than waiting passively, we must make every effort to live lives that reflect Christ’s character so that we are found ready when He appears. Let us examine our hearts daily, turning from sin and embracing Christlike conduct. Let us seek peace with God and with one another, trusting that His grace empowers us to live faithfully until He comes. In light of His promised return, may we be diligent to be ready for His return.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we thank You for the sure promise of Christ’s return. Help us to live with earnest diligence, turning from anything that would blemish our witness and seeking to walk in peace with You and others. Strengthen us to live holy and expectant lives as we await our Savior. In Jesus’ name, amen.