Add to your faith virtue.
2 Peter 1.5.
Our lesson presents us with a splendid sum in addition. The graces are to be added, one to another.
Faith comes first; but faith cannot stand-alone, so we add to our faith virtue – that is, manliness, with all the noble qualities that apply to manliness.
Next we are to add knowledge – knowledge, of course, of the true kind, wisdom for life, spiritual knowledge, knowledge of God and of God’s will.
Self-control comes next – this is the key of all noble life. No matter how strong we are, or how much we know, if we have not self-control, something is wanting. He that can rule himself is strong, while he that lacks self-mastery, no matter what other gifts he may have, is pitiably weak.
Self-control produces another element – patience, patience in suffering. Another quality to be added to patience is Godliness – Godlikeness.
Then comes brotherly kindness – affectionateness to those among whom we mingle.
Last of all – love, the crowning gift and blessing.
To have these elements of character is to be ready for life.