Spiritual Growth
October 8, 2024
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Do you feel lost in your quest to find a path in life that is filled with purpose and meaning? In today’s world, much of modern purpose-seeking is devoid of true spiritual substance. Or any substance at all. Every Guru has one method, or book, that will put you on the right track, leaving many in the run of the ever-consuming quest for purpose. It would surprise many to find that both the world and those within the family of God seem to have a common unity in the quest for purpose through service. While on both sides of the coin, believer or not, the search often yields worldly fruits and often ends in the production of fruit that is spiritually unproductive.
"Life purpose derived solely from your work will leave you more empty than before you found it. "
As a creature crafted after an eternal God one should understand the value that alone equates to. This implies you have an eternal desire which cannot be satisfied by a temporal endeavor. Understanding that the purpose of your life is rooted in being created in the image of God can profoundly shape your quest for fulfillment and better align with obtaining the thing you truly desire. Recognizing this origin of your desire for purpose allows you the freedom to pursue a meaningful life through service to Him. Being created in the image of God means that serving him is what fills the person’s soul. God’s will is our Soul Food. Jesus said, “But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” He is indicating that something greater is needed to satisfy the spiritual hunger of man.
So many people miss to take advantage of what God has put before them, so they never make it to the next level of service. When opportunities are missed and obligations unmet, this reflects a void in comprehending your created purpose, and results in a deep sense of uncertainty. These consistent side steps or missing the mark I have often found are consistent occurrences in sluggards, or lazy individuals, because they are profoundly ineffective in the vineyard of the heart.
Your heart, soul and mind need not only to be brought before God, but need to be tended to and taken care of. Growing in Faith is a process in which God guides, but is a process we are involved in. And Wisdom asks of us to take advantage of all the opportunities God gives us to further the progress of our progression of growing in faith. Often unknown to our knowledge, but over time more perceived in the fruit that comes from growing in faith. In other words, faith is not natural to man, but it is essential to pleasing and serving God. While Satan is relentless and untiring in his efforts, those who neglect their duty lose the honor and pleasure of serving God. The untamed natural state of our life leads to sin, lack, and misery, underscoring the necessity of diligent stewardship in the pursuing of all opportunities that may present themselves.
Adopting a victim mentality can be a significant hindrance in the journey of faith and labor. Those who constantly see themselves as victims are often paralyzed by their circumstances, unable to move forward in their service to God. This mindset breeds complacency and excuses, preventing individuals from taking responsibility for their actions and fulfilling their divine purpose. God calls for diligent stewardship and active participation in God’s work. Playing the victim undermines this call, as it shifts focus away from personal growth and service to God, and instead places it on self-pity and blame. Overcoming this mentality requires a shift in the mind’s perspective.
First, one following God must believe that all things coming to them are being filtered through the hands of God. Recognizing “his authority over us and his rule” (Eph. 1:11) is critical to trusting his plan. If we do not accept and have faith that he is in control of the cosmos, then we will minimize earthly activities to be random events and not contribute them to higher purposes. Secondly, recognizing that through Christ’s death, buria, and resurrection, we are empowered by his Spirit to rise above our challenges and contribute meaningfully to the vineyard of our hearts.
Failing to establish a clear direction can often result in increased uncertainty in your quest for purpose. Indecision, particularly in matters of faith, frequently equates to a decision against God. This principle is illustrated in James 1:6-8, which suggests that indecision leads to unfaithfulness. In understanding God’s character, we must recognize that God is wholeheartedly committed to everything He does. There is no indecision in Him; He is fervently passionate about all His actions. This passage should guide us in understanding the qualities we must embody in our service to God. If we are not fully engaged and wholeheartedly committed to our pursuit, we risk serving idols instead of God.
Recognizing God’s purpose in your life will enable you to transcend the low-level fulfillment and happiness provided to you by temporal success. As you draw closer to God, the signs of His purpose become more evident, manifesting through a combination of spiritual discernment, scriptural affirmation, and the fruit of the Spirit in your daily walk. Understanding these indicators can provide assurance and direction, helping you to live a life that is both purposeful and pleasing to God.
Drawing close to God is a purposeful journey in itself. It is something that needs to be worked at. I want to prepare you for soul work, as it is work. We must expect results but do not be disheartened by delays. God works according to his pleasure, not our expected timelines (Phil. 2:13, Ps. 115:3).
The first step in this journey is silence and the emptying of oneself. In a world filled with noise and distractions, it is crucial to carve out moments of stillness, allowing ourselves to hear God’s gentle whispers. Silence is not merely the absence of sound, but the presence of God, creating a space where we can lay down our burdens, surrender our worries, and open our hearts to His guidance and peace.
Next, immersing ourselves in His Word is essential. The Bible is God’s living and active communication with us, providing wisdom, comfort, and direction. By reading, meditating, and studying Scripture, we align our thoughts with God’s truth and gain a deeper understanding of His character and will for our lives. The Word of God is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, illuminating the way forward and strengthening our faith.
Additionally, gathering with other believers is vital for our spiritual growth and encouragement. Fellowship within a community of faith allows us to share our struggles, celebrate our victories, and bear one another’s burdens. Through corporate worship, prayer, and mutual edification, we experience the tangible presence of God and the support of a spiritual family. This collective journey fortifies our individual walks with God, reminding us that we are not alone and that together, we can spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Incorporating these practices into our daily lives helps us draw closer to God, fostering a deeper, more intimate relationship with our Creator. By embracing silence, engaging with His Word, and joining in fellowship with other believers, we position ourselves to experience His presence, hear His voice, and fulfill our divine purpose with clarity and conviction.
Grace enters the heart like a seed that must wait for its season to sprout. We should focus on Christ rather than our faith’s measure. Grace springs forth to ensure our reliance on Him. Fear can draw us closer to the Savior, and new believers should be nurtured with care, fulfilling the Shepherd’s duty.
The growth of a seed, like God’s work, is mysterious and beyond our full understanding. We carry and speak the Word, trusting that life comes from God. True believers consider the cost and remain steadfast, avoiding the pitfalls of hasty, fanatic zeal.
In conclusion, embracing the way of the farmer in both faith and labor ensures a life of purpose, diligence, and spiritual fulfillment. By reflecting Christ and fulfilling our responsibilities, we honor God and cultivate a fruitful vineyard in our hearts to grow and thrive.
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