Provisions for Spiritual Growth

In The Last Days Newsletter, Leonard Ravenhill tells about a group of tourists visiting a picturesque village who walked by an old man sitting beside a fence. In a rather patronizing way, one tourist asked, "Were any great men born in this village?" The old man replied, "Nope, only babies." A frothy question brought a profound answer. There are no instant heroes--whether in this world or in the kingdom of God. Growth takes time.

A false idea held by many is that the child of God is born full grown. They believe that once a person becomes a convert, instantaneously and automatically he becomes a mature Christian. Consequently, mature Christian conduct is expected from those who are in reality mere babies in the family of God.

Many new converts have been greatly distressed by their failure to measure up to what they believe they should be as followers of Jesus Christ. They have mistakenly labored under the impression that once you become a child of God, Christian character and maturity will naturally follow.

As children of God, each of us needs to recognize that spiritual growth is both a responsibility and continuing opportunity. Scripturally speaking, this growth involves three definite provisions. They are:

1) Our Father: We may be old in sin, but we are young in Christ at the time of our spiritual birth. We are God's little ones. Ours is the privilege of being the children of the eternal God. We are not what we ought to be. Neither are we now what we can be. As his children we should love him, trust him, and obey him.
2) Our Food: The father has made provisions for his children. In the church he has provided for us a family in which to grow toward spiritual maturity and effectiveness. In the Bible he has provided us the milk, meat, and bread we need for spiritual effectiveness.
3) Our Future: It is God's will that the followers of Christ assume both the privileges and the responsibilities that had been bestowed upon Israel as a nation. These are: being a chosen generation; being a royal priesthood; being a holy nation; being people for God's own possession; and showing forth the praises of the One who has called you out of darkness into light.

Finally, always keep in mind that the noble destiny that God has purposed for us reveals the necessity for our growth toward spiritual maturity. Strong spiritual lives require both a strong knowledge of the Word of God and an intimate daily relationship with Christ.

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Galatians 5:22-23; James 1:2; 1 Corinthians 11:1; Acts 17:11; Acts 2:41.

Prayer:

Dear Father, I humbly come before Your throne and worship You because You are the One who took my sins upon You, and died for me because You love me so dear. I ask Lord God that You lead me on the narrow path and help me worship, bless, and honor You because You are worthy of our praises. Help me not to grow weary but stronger in my faith. This I pray in Your name. Amen

God bless you always,

Lori Ann