I Am Writing

Text: 2 Peter 1:1

Theme: Peter took time to write.

Key phrases: “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…”

What God said to me: Dwayne, good morning. Welcome to a new week to serve me and enjoy your journey! You must recommit to daily time with me journaling through 2 Peter. I have much to show you from my Word. There are a few very important things I want you to see about these opening sentences of Peter’s second letter. First, notice he acknowledged he was the author, and he poignantly defined himself as “a slave and apostle of Jesus Christ.” Peter knew who he was, and he was good with that. He had a clear understanding of both sides of his reality: He was a slave but he was also an apostle. He thought lowly of himself, yet highly at the same time. Slave was a derogatory term, while apostle had the ring of authority and first-hand insight. This is how you should approach your teaching and writing too. You should always see yourself–and allow your readers to see you–as vulnerable and imperfect while also having authority and knowledge about which you write. Secondly, notice that he simply said, “I am writing…” Aren’t you glad he took time to write? You know how challenging it is mentally to focus on writing and how time-consuming it can be. Peter didn’t shy away because of that. He had something important to share, and he took whatever time and energy needed to put it down in writing. Third, it’s important to note that Peter knew his target audience before he started writing. He said he was writing “to you who share the same precious faith we have.” When you write, Dwayne, be sure you know to whom you are writing. Be as specific as possible with your target. Peter was wise enough to know to aim directly toward a specific group of people and write primarily for their benefit and interest. You need to apply all three of these principles with your live teaching and your writing: 1) Be yourself, 2) Get to writing, 3) Know your audience.

What I said to God: Wow, thank You, Lord, for opening my eyes to these amazing insights from Peter’s writing. I have never noticed his intentionality and focus before. I know I have allowed myself to get bogged down in Q1s and admin/promo/fundraising type stuff lately. Please help me to discipline myself to write and journal 5 days out of the week. I also need to get back on my prayer book this Fall. You have gifted me with the ability and insights to write. Shame on me for not priortizing it more. I am both Your slave and Your child. I will listen and obey.