Are You Growing Spiritually?
Spiritual growth is an essential part of preparing for heaven.
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen."
(II Peter 3:18.) Paul described spiritual growth by saying, "but, speaking
the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head -- Christ
--" (Ephesians
You grow spiritually by producing the fruit of the spirit in your life.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there
is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23.) Love is affection, good will or
benevolence toward others. Joy is
gladness both received and shared with others.
Peace is tranquility, harmony and concord. Long-suffering is patience or
endurance. Gentleness is goodness and kindness. Goodness is uprightness of
heart and life. Faith is the conviction of the truths we hold. Meekness is
gentleness or mildness. Self-control is temperance. As the
fruit of the Spirit increases in life spiritual growth is taking place.
You grow spiritually by increasing in love for lost souls. "I
am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the
gospel to you who are in
You grow spiritually by faithful attendance at all the assemblies of
the church. Christians must assemble faithfully, with the right attitude,
having a strong desire to worship and serve God. (Hebrews 10:24-25.) Faithful
attendance provides an opportunity for growth and also an opportunity to
edify others. Never allow yourself to be guilty of willfully forsaking even one
assembly.
You grow spiritually by developing Christlikeness. "My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until
Christ is formed in you." (Galatians 4:19.) Christians must have the mind of Christ and
follow His example. (Philippians 2:5; I Peter 2:21.) The moon reflects the
light of the sun. Christians reflect
the light and likeness of God's Son. Has
Christ been formed in you?
You grow spiritually by developing a stronger desire to go to heaven. "This
world is not my home." (Philippians 1:21-24.) Our desire for that heavenly
home must be strong. "But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly
country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared
a city for them." (Hebrews 11:16.) Do you really want to go to heaven? And
are you willing to do what is necessary to get there?
Other indicators of spiritual growth are: (1) Developing the right
mindset (Colossians 3:1-4), (2) Giving liberally and cheerfully (II Corinthians
8:1-5; II Corinthians 9:7), (3) Regular, daily self-examination (II Corinthians
13:5), (4) Gaining knowledge of God's word (II Timothy 2:15), (5) Steadfast
involvement in the Lord's work (I Corinthians 15:58), (6) Praying constantly
(I Thessalonians 5:17-18), and (7) Developing a stronger fellowship with the
brethren (Romans 12:10; John 13:34-35.)
You are either growing or dying spiritually. Which direction is
your spiritual life headed? Obey the gospel (Mark