Clues to Growing Spiritually

Published 2/28/20

Read Hebrews 6:1-2

"Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment."

Reflect

What does it mean to "go on to maturity"?

What helps you to grow spiritually? And for that matter, exactly what does it mean? For some clues, we could break out a dictionary or a guide to theological terms ... or even spend some time reading through random comments that pop up on a Google search. Chances are we'd be more confused than we were before.

Recent studies suggest that many Christians and pastors have difficulty defining spiritual growth and maturity. So, it's not surprising to find that the definitions among adults from various faith backgrounds are wildly diverse.

Salvation is the single most important decision we'll ever make in our lives, and living and growing in Christ is the daily pursuit of a forgiven life. His grace is free. But as we acknowledge our brokenness we allow God to work in our hearts on a deeper level than we ever imagined. He moves right into our hurts, hopes, bitterness, love, selfishness, mistakes, desires--name the issue and Christ is going to work in that part of our life. Consider this: He is the only one who truly knows our private thoughts and struggles.

Isn't it awe-inspiring that He is the only one who can deliver us?

No wonder it's so hard to define spiritual growth and maturity. With all of the possible combinations of baggage we carry around, each one of our personal journeys will be specific to each one of us. Our growth and maturity involves a journey--a transformational process. And it's a vital part of living out our salvation.

While salvation is absolutely necessary, it is also just the beginning of living a life of freedom. We rarely know what we are getting into when we ask Christ to examine our hearts and deliver us from our own weaknesses. But it is a necessary process if we truly seek a life of holiness.

One thing's for certain: It won't be easy.

Pray

Lord, thank you for guiding me, teaching me, and moving me on to maturity. Amen.