The Next Steps to Growth
Ephesians 4:14-16
Yesterday’s devotion covered three steps to spiritual growth – renewing our minds through Bible reading, confessing sin, and repenting of that sin. Today we look at three more steps that will build our spiritual life.
Any believer – new or mature – would be wise to receive godly counsel. I have seen some great men and women take a terrible plunge away from the Lord because they were too proud to admit weakness. God sees us as we really are, but none of us see ourselves that way. We need a friend who will be completely honest about our faults and mistakes. A godly counselor will not be critical or condemning, but rather is loving and kind.
Another step toward spiritual maturity is to serve God. And the only way to do that is by serving others, which may even mean someone who tends to bring out our worst qualities. But when we get involved in their lives, we learn patience, acceptance, and ultimately, love.
One final step is to respond properly to trials and suffering. We all wish that our greatest growth came during the calm times of our life. But the truth is, we make the most spiritual progress when we face difficulty. Focusing on God instead of the source of our adversity is the appropriate response.
So the ultimate question is, do you really want to move ahead in your Christian walk? To do so requires time, attention, and commitment. But if you choose to journey down God’s pathway to growth, you can expect to become more Christ-like every day.
Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries