Just like a newborn needs proper care and nourishment for healthy development, your spiritual life must also be attended to with care and attention. Even after you’ve given your life to Jesus Christ, it’s not uncommon to find yourself needing change and development. In 1 Peter 2:2-3, we are reminded that as Christians, we are like infants who need to grow. Just like a baby needs to be fed and nurtured to grow, you also need to make an effort to develop spiritually and pursue obedience.
However, change can be difficult, and humans often resist it. But if you want to experience meaningful discipleship, you must admit your need for biblical growth and change. It’s not a one-time thing but a lifelong pursuit of righteousness and transformation.
In Understanding Christian Theology, Charles Swindoll explains that Christians are changed in character at conversion, but there’s still room for growth. New Christians should steadily develop in their reorientation towards righteous living and character transformation.
So, how do you determine if you’re a healthy and growing Christian? It starts with a heart check and assessment of your spiritual practices, goals, and nourishment. Are you receiving the spiritual teaching and training you need? Are you living your life in light of the Word, and are there any barriers to growth and change?
Scripture is sufficient to guide your life and help you walk worthy of the Lord, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:10). Seeking to study the Scriptures with understanding, trust, and obedience brings about the Lord’s purposes in us.
Change takes place by understanding and applying the Gospel. The ability to use the Gospel means you must first know it. Authentic change is internal and for God’s glory. The gospel model for change is Galatians 3:3, which shows that sanctification is essential to the lifelong journey of living out our salvation after justification.
Ultimately, artificial efforts at personal transformation are temporary, superficial, and ultimately inconsequential. We need real answers to our struggles that can only be found in Jesus Christ. So, keep seeking Him, feeding on His Word, and pursuing righteousness.
If you’re feeling stagnant in your spiritual life or recognize the need for change and growth, take a moment to assess your spiritual practices and nourishment. Are you receiving the teaching and training you need? Are you actively seeking to understand and apply the Gospel in your life? Remember that change and growth require effort and a willingness to pursue righteousness. Seek the Lord, feed on His Word, and trust in His transformative power to bring about lasting change in your life.
Debbie Swindell 