In Galatians 5:22-23 we are looking for evidence of God's Spirit doing a work in our life, building character in the inner man. This work of God will result in godly behavior, which is a contrast to what the flesh does in its natural condition (Galatians 5:16-21; Ephesians 4:17-23; 5:1-12). When learning this, it is first necessary to examine ourselves to see if Christ is in us, doing this work of grace - producing this fruit (II Corinthians 13:4-5; Philippians 1:9-11; cp. Matthew 7:21-23). Yet, this knowledge of God's work in our lives is not to be received with a passive attitude. We do not just sit there waiting for God to do something in our lives, all the while saying, "God hasn't given me the victory yet!" We are constantly told to obey, to seek the ways of God and apply them to our life (Matthew 5:3-20; 7:15-27; Galatians 5:16-26; Ephesians 4:17-32; 5:1-21).

It is at this point that we want to see how Peter describes the practical use of divine means to produce fruit in our lives (II Peter 1:2-11). Using the knowledge of God and the exceeding great and precious promises, we are to become partakers of the divine nature (II Peter 1:2-4). We are to "add" / "minister" / "supply" / "supplement" / "provide" key elements to our faith, so that we are fruitful (II Peter 1:5,8). The same Greek word is used in II Peter 1:11 to tell us that God will also "add" / "minister" / "supply" / "supplement" / "provide" an entrance into His everlasting / eternal kingdom (cp. James 4:8a "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you…"). This everlasting / eternal kingdom is not just referring to going to heaven, after you die (II Timothy 4:18 "heavenly kingdom"). It is about entering into Christ's kingdom, in this life, through the new birth (Matthew 6:9-10; John 3:3 "see with the mind;" Acts 28:23-31; Colossians 1:13; 4:11; Romans 14:17-19; Revelation 1:9). The Son of God wants to supply for our spiritual lives abundantly / richly / lavishly (John 10:10; Ephesians 3:14-19; 4:7-8,11-15 cp. II Timothy 2:1).