A stagnant pool of water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and slimy filth. No one dares to slake his thirst from a green-covered pond. In contrast, what sight is more refreshing than a brisk, cool, flowing stream of mountain water? Spiritually, the difference between growing Christians and those who are spiritually dormant is a lot like the distinction between the algae pond and the swift, clear stream. Some are spiritually stagnant, while other Christians are vibrant and refreshed.
One of the most common grievances we here from brethren is that they feel stalled in their spiritual life. How does a stagnant saint get moving again spiritually? Please consider these suggestions:
First, your desire for spirituality must be real. To be spiritually-minded you must not pretend. Do you really want to honor God with your life? Do you really want to please and obey God? Then you must desire it with all your heart. "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God" (Psalm 42:1).
Then, make up your mind that sin is going to be taken seriously. Toying with sin will get you into deep trouble spiritually. Sin has to be an ugly, distasteful thing for you. If you play around with sin and try to be spiritually-minded at the same time, you will be empty inside. Coming to church on Sunday will not cover up your sin on Monday. You must deliberately choose to live separately from the world.
Occupy yourself with spiritual activities. Attending worship and Bible study periods arranged by the church is a must for spiritual growth. Real spirituality, however, does not stop at the church building. In fact, real spirituality is evident in us as we read our Bible privately, pray fervently when we are alone, and seek opportunity to serve our fellow man. You cannot be more spiritual if you are giving your time and energy to fleshly things. Think, act, and be spiritually-minded.
It will help if you Focus your attention on Jesus Christ. There is no genuine spirituality without a deep faith in Jesus Christ. In John 15:5, Jesus said, "without me, you can do nothing." If the focus of your faith is on someone or something other than Jesus, spiritual growth will be impossible! Jesus is both the author and finisher of our faith. As such, He must be given more than a passing glance now and then! A popular song we sometimes sing says, "turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in light of His glory and grace."
Finally, you must allow God's grace to become your motivation for spiritual growth. If you really understand what it took to save you from your sins, then you are well on your way to spiritual vibrancy. Grace is not an excuse for sin, rather, it is a motivation to live righteously. Appreciated grace causes careful joyful obedience!
Try these suggestions for a month and see if you do not improve spiritually. If you are serious about avoiding spiritual stagnation, you must make the effort to keep yourself alive. You can be more spiritual, but it will take determination on your part.
MR
No comments:
Post a Comment