When you hear the word above what comes to your mind? Are you reminded of the “razor sharp” memory you possessed as a youth (if you are mature in years?) Does some moment in the past come to mind of a happier day? Do you remember what it was like to have a youthful body that was able to leap over tall buildings? Do you think of all the things that you have forgotten over the years?

For each one of us this is probably something different. We all have certain memories that we will cherish all the days of our lives. And, by the same token, we have certain things that I am sure we all wish we could not remember any more. I know that is true for me.

Many years ago Peter wrote, “Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is imminent, as also our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. 15 And I will also be diligent that at any time after my departure you will be able to call these things to mind.” (2 Peter 1:12-15)

Peter is letting his listeners know that there are some things that are important. These matters are so important that he wants them to remember them after he has departed this life. What could be so important that he wants them to remember? The first part of this chapter describes what we call the Christian Graces (take time to read them). These things need to be made a part of our lives. As he tells us, “if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:8)

Sometimes we want to hear the “deep things of God.” And yet, Peter tells us that these things that you have already heard are important to listen to, and they should be increasing in your life. We definitely need to grow our faith, but lets not forget the essentials that were laid out for us years ago. Study these things so that you will know what you need to be doing. After all, heaven awaits.