Why do we sin? Why do we find ourselves trapped in habits or behaviors we hate?

We often think the problem is a lack of willpower. We assume we are not trying hard enough. But Peter says the root cause is something else: a lack of trust.

“...by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” 2 Peter 1:4

Lust is not only sexual. It is a craving to satisfy a legitimate need in an illegitimate way.

We lie because we do not trust God to protect us with the truth. A person steals or cheats when they doubt His provision. We turn to addictions for comfort when we do not trust Him to give us rest.

Peter calls this ignorance. It is a lack of revelation of who God is.

You escape the corruption of the world by partaking of the promises, not by gritting your teeth. When you are confident that God is your provider, you do not need to cheat. Knowing He is your defender means you do not need to fight.

Holiness comes from trusting a Promise Keeper, not from willpower.