From Pastor Tom - Spiritual Growth

Does Spiritual Growth Just Happen?

Most people think that spiritual growth just happens.  This is not true.  Our spiritual development is much like our physical development.  If you don’t take care of it – it will not be healthy.  You’ve got to have a plan of exercise, proper nutrition and education if you are going to be healthy, strong and mature.

The Bible says, “You must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”  2 Peter 3:18 (NLT)

Here are three facts about spiritual growth:

1.  Spiritual Growth Must Be Intentional

The truth is that spiritual growth requires a commitment.  A person must want to grow, decide to grow, and make an effort to grow.  Spiritual growth begins with a decision.

When you make a decision to grow spiritually – God begins to work in your life.  In Philippians 2:12-13, Paul is speaking about spiritual growth and he says, “Work hard to show the results of your salvation . . . for God is working in you.”  Notice that both you and God are involved on your spiritual growth.

2.  Spiritual Growth Requires Commitment

We become what we are committed to.  Without a commitment to grow – any growth that occurs will be circumstantial rather than intentional.  Paul writes about committing to spiritual growth when he says, “…give yourself completely to God…use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God.”  Romans 6:13 (NLT) Commitment is a major step of spiritual growth.

3.  Spiritual Growth Is Not a Private Matter

Some people believe that spiritual growth is a personal and private matter.  This is not what the Bible teaches.  What the Bible teaches is spiritual growth is not self-centered and self-focused.  Spiritual growth is servant focused.  We don’t grow in isolation from others.  We develop in context of fellowship.  Throughout the New Testament we find this basic truth:  Believers need relationships with other believers to grow!  Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.  And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another…”  Spiritual growth takes place in the context of community.

Join us in January as we begin a new sermon series entitled "Living Life Wisely".  This will be a walk through the book of James.

May God Bless

Pastor Tom