Three Steps toward Spiritual Growth
by Rick Warren
"I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds" John 12:24 (NIV).
When you think about your walk with Jesus, some days you may wonder, "Why is this so hard? I'm still struggling with so many problems. When will I finally get it right?"
In my journey as a pastor, I've learned spiritual growth is often like the growth we see in nature--the best fruit ripens slowly. In John 12:24, Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds" John 12:24 (NIV).
The problem is we tend to get impatient, so we dig up the seed to check the progress of its growth, and that slows down our growth! If you're not seeing as much fruit as you'd like, don't despair. Growth takes time.
In the meantime, try these steps toward spiritual growth:
Nurture growth with God's Word--I know you're already doing this, but when you read the promises of God, again and again, it helps you remember that he is at work, even when you can't see him at work: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" Hebrews 11:1 (NIV).
Cooperate with God as he prunes--Praise God for the work he's doing in your life, remembering "he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more" John 15:2 (NLT).
Pray through the 'fruit list'--Pray through the 'fruit list' from Galatians 5:22-23. The NIV Bible lists the fruit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Ask God to help you grow this fruit in your life.
You can comment on this devotional online at:
http://thoughts-about-god.com/blog/2009/11/23/rw_spiritual-growth/
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Tags: comfort, encourage, God's love, Holy Spirit, hope, joy, peace, praise, trust
November 23rd, 2009 at 11:10 am
Great Encouragement about our Spiritual growth. Yes indeed we need GOD's WORD daily to shield us, and as we experience difficulties its a thought that HE is pruning our character and never to give up no matter how hard and heavy
the cross we are carrying ( families and relatives ) and know which part of me that needs changes... PATIENCE!. Its just my patience run out when things don't work right. Help me pray in this.
November 23rd, 2009 at 11:37 am
Thank you for this fruitful devotional.
Blessings.
November 23rd, 2009 at 11:44 am
TRUE.. Growth takes time but its IN HIS TIME... and that we are willing to accept
and do the things HE wants us to do.Nobody's perfect for all have sinned and fall short of the GLORY of GOD ( Romans 3:23 ).
As I listen to the sermon I highlight the pastors message:
*The Spirit of GOD should be our partner
* HE desires to be your partner
*Your body is the temple of the HOLY SPIRIT
* Let THE LORD bethe leader of your LIFE! AWESOME.(.RickWarren your message
make me Alive this morning...