If you do these things, you shall never fail. (2 Peter 1:10)

I have to admit that I enjoy cooking. I enjoy having guests over to partake of my efforts in the kitchen. And I understand how recipes work. There are a combination of ingredients and usually one key ingredient that defines the overall dish. For example, fudge includes sugar, butter and walnuts, but the key ingredient is the chocolate. Or a tuna fish casserole includes noodles, a cream type base, salt or other seasoning, but the key ingredient is the tuna fish.

Life can be defined as a recipe. Peter lists some of the ingredients that mix into a successful life on the spiritual plane. Faith is believing in Jesus, trusting God, depending on God and doing what is right through the leading of the Holy Spirit. Virtue is strength, courage and persistence. Knowledge is knowing, learning, through the reading of the Holy Scriptures. Temperance is often translated as self-control and good judgment. Godliness is having respect for God and what God has done and is doing. Brotherly kindness is the attitude of siblings who really love each other deeply. Charity, also translated as Love, is the desire to do good for others without cause or expectation.

In all of this, the key ingredient is God. Mix well and walk it out daily and you have the complete recipe for a happy, successful life.

Holy God, be a part of my recipe that my life will turn out the way it is supposed to—like the picture on the menu!