Growing is Never Easy

 

"You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unscrupulous people and lose your own firm commitment, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen."

2 Peter 3:17-18

 

When we talk about growth, we have examples all around us. We can use the example of our gardens and how they grow to produce food for our tables. The forest trees to the field of wildflowers show us the beauty of nature. We have the example of growth in the animal world, from delightful barnyard babies to our puppies and kittens. Of course, we do not forget the best example of all, humans. From birth to old age, we experience the wonders of growth firsthand.

            One thing that all living things have in common is that growth is not an easy process. From the start, it is a difficult challenge. Whether breaking through a hard shell and pushing through the ground or pecking your way out of the shell of an egg to the trauma of birth, the start of life is complicated, and many do not make it that far.

            Once we get started in life, we face countless trials and struggles that will help us grow and mature until we complete the process and end our journey. The dangers we face are not just physical. Some seek to deceive and mislead us along the way. We all know who they are and are not unaware of the danger they present.

            Throughout Scripture, we are warned to be on our guard against those who would deceive and lead us away from God's path. That warning is not just to us but to our young as well. It is up to us to protect and help guide them on their journey in life. So how do we do this? By studying and applying the word of God in our life daily.

            The great Nineteenth-Century Pastor and Evangelist Charles H. Spurgeon (1834-1892) said, "The doctrine of the atonement is to my mind one of the surest proofs of the divine inspiration of Holy Scripture. Who would or could have thought of the just Ruler dying for the unjust rebel? This is no teaching of human mythology, or dream of poetical imagination. This method of expiation is only known among men because it is a fact; fiction could not have devised it. God himself ordained it; it is not a matter which could have been imagined."

            Be bold as you grow through life. Always be aware that some would trip you up if they can or cause those you love to stumble. But you have the weapon that can defeat them all. Know the word of God. Follow the word of God. Share the word of God with others. You will grow healthy and strong every time.

 

You can learn more about Personal Development from the author and speaker, John Patrick Hickey. To get his books, training material, or book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website: www.growthcenter.net.    © 2022 John Patrick Hickey. No part of this material may be reprinted or published without the author's written permission.