2 Peter 1:6 6and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with perseverance, and perseverance with godliness,
The verse continues the list of virtuous responses believers can develop in response to and in cooperation with God’s power working in them. Each quality Peter lists leads to and builds upon the next in the sequence. Knowledge gives a person resources to draw upon for other qualities needed to overcome the deceived desires of the world. Self-control(enkrateian) is one of the possible outcomes of gaining more knowledge, especially the knowledge related to the teachings of Jesus. Knowledge helps us become more aware of ourselves, especially our weaknesses that can be more easily tempted to compromise. Self-control is a fruit that the Holy Spirit grows in our lives as we walk in the obedience of faith (Galatians 5:23). As we learn to listen and obey, the Holy Spirit will guide us to make better choices.
One result of self-control is perseverance (hypomonēn), patience, long suffering, or endurance. This word has the sense of sticking with something or someone and not giving up out of frustration or anger. Self-control helps a person be reliable and steadfast. We can stand strong in our convictions and not be shaken by the storms of life. We must be strong when evil fights against us or deceived people try to pull us down or tempt us away from God’s will for us.
As we grow stronger, we make better choices consistent with God’s holy and loving nature. Thus, we become more godly and more consistent with God’s image. Godliness (eusebeian) represents the life of piety and devotion that is consistent with God’s character and will. In essence, this is what becoming Christlike is all about. If we are not becoming like Christ, something must be missing in this list. We must be look carefully at our lives and choices if we are not living godly lives.