Continual Growth

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

The past few years my husband and I have been working on our yard. When we first moved in, it was so full of weeds and roots that grass had no chance. So, we intentionally started all over. The process was long and drastic, but it was necessary. We brought in dirt, planted new seed, watered, and slowly saw signs of growth.

The next summer we aerated the lawn, removed bad spots and continued to supply water and nutrients. Finally, this year, our work is paying off. Our yard has more grass than clover. However, if we decided we were satisfied and stopped tending it, things would quickly change. Even a nice yard requires continual attention.

In many ways, our faith journeys are similar. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, God begins a work in us that continues the rest of our lives. In Philippians 1:3-11 Paul speaks to this as he reflects on the Philippians’ faith journey. He recognizes that their growth is not done. God is still molding them and is faithful to complete the work he started. The same is true for us.

Like with our yard, our growth looks different at different times of life. Sometimes it is heartbreaking when “weeding” is drastic and painful. Other times it is frustrating when growth is slow. Still yet, there are seasons when we are happy and tempted to stop growing in our faith.

Whatever part of the process you are in, remember that God is still moving and is faithful to complete the work he started. What looks like just dirt to us, God may be using to grow something beautiful. Spiritual growth takes time. It’s not scripted and it’s not easy. Like a yard that always needs tending, the work of God in our hearts is not done.

Reflect: What season do you feel like you are in? How have you seen God’s constant work in your life? Ask God to reveal the areas he is asking you to grow and any “weeds” that need tending.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We thank you for the assurance that you are constantly working. We have peace knowing that you are faithful and will complete what you started. When we are full of questions and don’t feel like growing, reveal yourself to us. Draw us closer to you in every season. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen

Makalah Scholten
Spiritual Care Coordinator

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