Paul

PAUL
Philippians 1:5-7
Vv. 5-6: …”being confident of this, (partnering in the gospel), that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

The apostle Paul traveled around the world, teaching, preaching, and starting churches. One day, he stopped in Philippi, a prosperous Roman colony in Greece. There, he taught a group of men and women who were committed to following Jesus. He began with outstretched arms to the crowd:

“Brethren, every spiritual journey that grows in Christ is unique. Yet, there are certain stages of growth that are common to all believers. The Father teaches new believers basic principles that form a foundation on which to build a stronger faith-based relationship with Him and other believers.

“The building blocks come from truths in His Word, other believers, and life circumstances. The Lord calls followers to serve Him. We were created to do good works. (Ephesians 2:10). Pooling our talents completes every endeavor to His glory.

“Don’t be surprised if you become frustrated by your own inadequacy. Pride, arrogance, and boasting impede spiritual growth. This teaches us that without divine guidance and power, our human strength is insufficient—almost laughable.

“The Father will unpack our emotional baggage (things from one’s past that remain unresolved). Tenderly, He will force face-to-face confrontations with whatever holds us captive. Freedom in Jesus conquers whatever worries hold us hostage. As we struggle through issues, Jesus leads us to victory.

“After embracing Jesus as our Savior, our sinful nature is destroyed in exchange for a new life in Christ. As we surrender to the Holy Spirit’s influence, Jesus shines through us.”

“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:2).

Do you recognize yourself in any of these stages? Can you identify an area where God still needs to cultivate your spiritual development?

Take Home Nugget

Spiritual growth is where God transforms believers from the inside out. This is called sanctification, and the conversion takes a lifetime.

Others often do not notice our progress, but we can identify specific areas of improvement. Perhaps we’re more patient. Maybe we’re slower to anger. Possibly, things that used to be a passion for us are simmering quietly on the back burner of our hearts. Don’t be surprised if some interests simply dissolve away.

Lord, perfector of my faith, thank you for all You do for me. I commit myself to making the most of my spiritual journey—all the way to maturity. Lead me to the best I can be to experience Your best for me. Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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