Make every effort to grow spiritually
“So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.” (2 Peter 3:14 NIV)
Growth as a Christian does take effort
Most Christians understand that you don’t work to get saved because what Christ did on the cross was more than enough for that. But spiritual growth, after you’ve received salvation, is another issue. The Bible tells us to “work out” our salvation (Phil. 2:12-13), which means that you must work to grow spiritually. In fact, the Bible says in the passage at top to “make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him”. So what does the idiom, “make every effort”, mean?
“Make every effort” defined: To put forth the greatest possible effort (to do, achieve, or accomplish something).
Look at what other passages say about making every effort.
“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.” (Luke 13:24 NIV)
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Eph. 4:3 NIV)
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Heb. 12:14 NIV)
“Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15 BSB)
“Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.” (Heb. 4:11 NIV)
Therefore…
“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble,” (2 Peter 1:10)
“For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.” (2 Peter 1:5-7 ESV)
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Rom. 14:19 NIV)
“And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful.Yes, make our efforts successful!" (Psalm 90:17 NLT)