Embracing Spiritual Growth: A Partnership with God
As we journey through life, we often wonder how to become more like Jesus. The answer lies in partnership with God. He sparks the passion, but we must fan the flames. In Philippians 1:6, we’re reminded that God, who began a good work in us, will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. However, this doesn’t mean we’re passive observers; we must actively “work out our salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12a-13).
Initiating and Responding
God initiates the next good work He wants to accomplish in us, but we must respond. We must “continue” to come before Him, seek Him, and then follow through on what He instructs. When we fail to respond, we miss out on incredible opportunities for spiritual growth. If we’ve been presented with a lesson to learn and an action to take, but haven’t stepped out in faith, we’ll remain stagnant or even regress.
No Room for Guilt
Feeling guilty about past mistakes? Let that thought go! Our sins are already covered and paid for. Today is a new chance to experience the next best thing God has for us. He loves us dearly and is patient with our slow learning (which is all of us!). It’s never too late to respond.
The Reward of Obedience
The Apostle Paul reminds us of our reward: “that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1:9-11). As we listen, trust, and obey, this will be our reward too.
A Prayer for Obedience
Dear Jesus, help me understand the next thing You want me to do to become more like You. Give me the courage to respond obediently. Amen.
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