2 Peter 1:5-8  For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge, knowledge with self-control, self-control with endurance, endurance with godliness, godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being useless or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (CSB)

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As an aging male, I take an increasing number of supplements to keep my body in good working condition. We will put these vitamins, minerals, and medications to the test in an hour or so when I arrive at the physical therapist’s office. 

As a much younger man, I read lists of character qualities from the Apostles Peter and Paul and pondered how to get a grip on all these virtues. After pondering the possibilities for a while, I began adding these characteristics to my daily prayer list. While I could not, and cannot, master a whole list at one time, I can by intention and prayer develop mastery over weeks, months, and years. 

Which of these virtues in your life require growth and development? 
How will you turn these characteristics into systematic prayers?
What will be your method of practicing these character qualities?

Whenever you see something noble and good (See Philippians 4:8), evaluate it’s presence and power in your life on a scale of one to ten where ten is complete fulfillment and one is emptiness. Be honest. Make a plan to grow in this grace. Write it down. Ask God to build it into your life. Invite others to assist you in your intention. 

God is generous with his grace and strength for all who seek to live and love like Jesus. 

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I will intentionally grow in God’s grace.

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Our Father, please grow me in your grace. Build your character into my life. Empower me to live and love like Jesus. Amen.