My wife and I have a large 3D-type painting of the face of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. When you look closely, a detailed account of the crucifixion emerges from the hidden details within the picture. We have a plaque which reads: “A soft answer turneth away wrath,” taken from Proverbs 15:1, emphasizing a key to harmony in our home. Another plaque reads: “Love one another,” based on I Thessalonians 4:9 and Romans 13:8. This highlights the glue that holds families together. We’ve intentionally placed these constant reminders of our faith on the walls so their truth will become deeply imbedded into our souls.

After instructing the Jewish saints to add a list of virtues to their faith (II Peter 1:5-8), Peter goes on to say three different times that he will continue to remind them of these truths. He says: “…I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth” (vs. 12). Peter knew that even saints who are well grounded in truth tend to forget the truths of Scripture, or can even be swayed by false teaching. Peter was well aware of our Lord’s parable about the sower sowing the Word of God and the “wicked one” coming to snatch that seed away (Matthew 13:19-20). So he told his readers he would be intent on constantly reminding them of the virtues they needed to add to their faith. Peter put it this way: “Yea, I think it meet [or appropriate], as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance” (vs. 13). It may have sounded like a broken record to some. To others his reminders would be like the saints in the hymn “hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest.” As long as he was alive, Peter intended to sing this same tune to remind them of needed truths. Finally, Peter told them another reason for his persistence: “I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance” (vs. 15). My father had over a dozen memorable quotes about wisdom in life that he repeated over and over. This repetition has branded these saying into my mind. So, I am certain Peter’s repetition of truth was effective.

Believer, we suggest you constantly review the truths, and even basic doctrines of God’s Word with your family. Doing so will assure they won’t be easily forgotten.