This past weekend, Kelly and I facilitated an Infusion at Brooklife on the topic “Discovering Spiritual Growth.” It was a great time of learning together in the group. My next couple of posts will share two small pieces of what we talked about there.
When we approach the topic of spiritual growth, it is critical that we get the framework for our spiritual growth correct. We cannot assume that we are headed in the right direction just because we are praying or reading the Bible or doing other so called ‘spiritual’ activities.
Here are some notes on spiritual growth that I think provide a helpful framework for taking spiritual growth in the right direction.
Spiritual Growth is focused on God
- Spiritual growth is not for our own self-fulfillment or self-actualization; this may be a by-product, but it is not the goal.
- Spiritual growth is fueled by a Longing for God – “You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you” (Psalm 63:1)
- Spiritual growth is about Knowing God – “I want to know Christ” (Philippians 3:10)
- Spiritual growth means Living with God – “in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28)
- Spiritual growth is For the Glory of God – “to the praise of His glory” (Ephesians 1:6, 12, 14)
Spiritual growth imitates Jesus
- Spiritual growth is not of ourselves; it does not come from our own good deeds – “all our righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6)
- Spiritual growth happens because Jesus makes a way to the Father – “in Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence” (Ephesians 3:12)
- Spiritual growth looks like Jesus; we take on Jesus’ way of life – “take my yoke upon you and learn from me” (Matthew 11:29); “[Christ left] you an example, that you should follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:21)
- Spiritual growth results in us looking like Jesus in our real lives – “For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son” (Romans 8:29)
Spiritual growth comes by God’s power
- Spiritual growth does not happen by our own will or strength alone – “even youths grow tired and wear, and young men stumble and fall” (Isaiah 40:30)
- Spiritual growth happens because The Holy Spirit lives in us – “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever – the Spirit of truth” (John 14:16-17)
- Spiritual growth becomes a reality as The Holy Spirit brings the change – “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-25)
- Spiritual growth moves outward as The Holy Spirit gives special gifts for service – “Not to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7).
>> As you consider this framework for spiritual growth, do you think you are more focused on God or yourself as you pursue spiritual growth?
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Matthew Erickson 
I think I’m more focused on God over myself as motivation for spiritual growth right now. As I think back to the few times I’ve felt distant from God despite spending time with Him regularly, I think that distance was created by a misdirected attempt at spiritual growth. Your post is an ‘ah-ha’ moment for me, keeping it in mind for future reference.
Thanks, Shelley. So glad you’re headed in the right direction. I’m glad to give you an ‘ah-ha’ moment!
My goal is to focus on God for my spiritual growth. You are exactly right…it’s all about God. I’ve been trying to really understand what God is telling me in my everyday life so I picked up a book called “Decoding The Spiritual Messages of Everyday Life” by Dr. Paul DeBell. So far the book is down-to-earth and extremely practical. It shows how to bring spiritual intention to bear on daily routines and specific challenges.
Thanks, Betty, for the recommendation on the book. I look forward to taking a look at it.