Bible Text: 2 Peter 3:18
18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.
: Ephesians 4:15 “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.”
A child does not become an adult in one day. Growth requires nourishment, learning, discipline, correction, and time. A seed does not become a fruitful tree immediately after it is planted; it must develop roots, receive water, and endure different seasons before producing fruit. Spiritual growth is similar. A believer cannot remain spiritually immature forever and expect to fulfil the fullness of God’s purpose. Growth requires commitment, discipline, and a willingness to be transformed by God. It requires leaving behind old patterns and embracing the character of Christ.
The price of spiritual growth is the willingness to learn, change, and surrender areas of our lives that do not reflect God’s nature. It is choosing maturity over comfort and transformation over convenience. The disciples spent time with Jesus, learning, making mistakes, and growing until they became powerful witnesses of the Gospel. Their growth required patience, correction, and dedication.
The price of spiritual growth is discipline. Just as physical strength requires exercise, spiritual strength requires prayer, study of God’s Word, obedience, and fellowship with God. Growth requires humility because we must admit that we do not know everything. A teachable heart receives correction and allows God to refine our character. Pride prevents growth because it rejects instruction and resists change.
Spiritual growth also requires sacrifice. There are habits, attitudes, and relationships that may need to be surrendered because they hinder our walk with God. Growth means becoming less controlled by the desires of the flesh and more guided by the Holy Spirit. God is interested not only in what we accomplish but in who we become. A person may have gifts, opportunities, and influence, but without spiritual maturity, those blessings may not produce lasting fruit.
The process of growth is sometimes uncomfortable because God exposes weaknesses, corrects wrong attitudes, and strengthens areas that need improvement. However, His purpose is always to make us more like Christ. A growing believer becomes more loving, patient, obedient, and useful in God’s hands. Spiritual growth increases our capacity to serve others and fulfil divine assignments.
The price may include time, discipline, and surrender, but the reward is a deeper relationship with God and a life that reflects His glory.
Action Plans
- Allow the Scripture to renew your mind and shape your decisions.
- Build deeper fellowship with God through regular communication.
- Allow God to refine your character and produce maturity.
Covenant Gate Hymnals 51: SS & S 235: MY FAITH LOOKS UP TO THEE,
My faith looks up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Saviour divine ;
Now hear me while I pray ;
Take all my guilt away ;
Oh, let me from this day
Be wholly Thine.
May Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire :
As Thou hast died for me,
Oh, may my love to Thee
Pure, warm, and changeless be—–
A living fire.
While life’s dark maze I tread,
And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my Guide :
Bid darkness turn to day,
Wipe sorrow’s tears away ;
Nor let me ever stray
From Thee aside.
When ends life’s transient dream—-
When death’s cold, sullen stream
Shall o’er me roll—-
Blest Saviour, then in love,
Fear and distrust remove ;
Oh, bear me safe above—-
Today’s Prayer
1. Lord help me grow spiritually and become more like Christ daily.
2. Father give me grace to embrace discipline and spiritual maturity.
3. Lord strengthen others to grow in grace and knowledge of You.