Until about age 25, we grow physically. After that, we start to die. Fortunately, it usually takes another 50 to 60 years to complete the dying process!
Our spiritual life goes through a living-and-dying process, too. It either grows or it gradually dies. It can’t remain at the same level.
When you recognize that you’ve messed up, you’re already at the beginning stage of spiritual growth.
The second stage is discovering what caused you to 'die' spiritually. God confronted his people continually about this. Speaking through Ezekiel, he showed them that idols had taken God’s place in their hearts (see Ezekiel 14:1-11).
Is there an 'idol' (sports or other leisure activities, a relationship, money and possessions) in your life—something you love more than God? If so, are you willing to give up the idol and be straight with God? (see 1 John 1:9).
The third stage is the one that many Christians forget—finding someone to hold us accountable. You need someone to encourage you, to ask tough questions, to kick you in the pants when you need it, and to pray for you. This could be a friend who has a real desire to grow spiritually. It could be a Christian adult whom you like and respect—or anyone who is genuinely concerned for you and won’t give up on you. Need a friend like that? Just ask God to supply one.
Our spiritual life goes through a living-and-dying process, too. It either grows or it gradually dies. It can’t remain at the same level.
When you recognize that you’ve messed up, you’re already at the beginning stage of spiritual growth.
The second stage is discovering what caused you to 'die' spiritually. God confronted his people continually about this. Speaking through Ezekiel, he showed them that idols had taken God’s place in their hearts (see Ezekiel 14:1-11).
Is there an 'idol' (sports or other leisure activities, a relationship, money and possessions) in your life—something you love more than God? If so, are you willing to give up the idol and be straight with God? (see 1 John 1:9).
The third stage is the one that many Christians forget—finding someone to hold us accountable. You need someone to encourage you, to ask tough questions, to kick you in the pants when you need it, and to pray for you. This could be a friend who has a real desire to grow spiritually. It could be a Christian adult whom you like and respect—or anyone who is genuinely concerned for you and won’t give up on you. Need a friend like that? Just ask God to supply one.
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