Are You Growing?

Why talk about growth when the Fall and Winter seasons of the year are close at hand?  Depending on the temperature, tree root growth takes place in the winter. Many plant seeds rely on the winter temperatures because moisture freezes the seeds and expands them so they can break their hard shell and sprout in the spring. Other plants need a time of hibernation. In general, growth refers to an increase, expansion, or maturing that happens over time.  If there is no growth in plant, animal or human life, there is great concern because without growth there is stagnation, decrease and ineffectiveness.  On the other hand, growth suggests life, vitality, increase, and effectiveness.  The Bible points out that there needs to be spiritual growth in the life of a believer.  For example, a Christian is instructed to:

1)     “Grow up into him [Christ]” (Ephesians 4:15).  We need to make sure that Christ is the focus of our spiritual growth.

2)     “Grow up in your salvation” (I Peter 2:2). Once a person receives Christ by faith, they need to feed on the Word of God (the Bible) for proper growth.

3)    “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (II Peter 3:18). Inactivity will never advance spiritual growth.  There must be continuous study to know Christ better and understand how to progress in the Christian life.

An axiom says that where there is growth, there is life – at least where there is healthy growth there is healthy life.  Our spiritual growth takes place in many ways, but to see progressive growth on a regular basis we must be wise in what we do to encourage our growth.  Some good questions we need to ask ourselves about our spiritual growth:

1) Am I spending time reading, reflecting and studying the Bible?

2) Do I find myself thinking about ways to help people as I serve the Lord?

3) Do I live my life in such a way that it is a godly example for others?

4) Do my actions please God and help others grow spiritually?

Maybe it is time that each of us take time for personal examination to make sure we are growing in a manner that pleases the Lord.