Growing Up!

When we consider the experience of growing up it can be quite the experience. The stages of growth may not be passed through within the same timetable for all as some may grow up quicker than others. Nurturing and opportunity can have a lot to do with the rate at which growth takes place, but growth should be expected. When growth does not take place most often parents will seek the expertise of a doctor or psychologist in an attempt to figure out what is wrong. Is there always the same concern when there is a lack of spiritual growth?

Though Jesus was “Immanuel” which means “God with us” ( Matthew 1:23), having entered this life’s scene in the form of a tiny baby there were some natural stages expected for Him to go through from infancy to adulthood. To focus on Jesus’ walk on earth can provide us with both a wonderful example of how one can live in this realm and be pleasing to God ( 1 Peter 2:21) and also help us realize we have a Savior Who understands full well the challenges we face in this life. ( Hebrews 4:14-15) The Scriptures do not provide a lot of information regarding the childhood of Jesus, however Luke did record a concise description of that growth, the kind we would do well to follow in.

We read…
“And Jesus increased IN WISDOM and IN STATURE and IN FAVOR WITH GOD AND MAN.” ( Luke 2:52 ESV)

Within this single verse we have mentioned the intellectual (wisdom), physical (stature), spiritual (favor with God), and social (favor with man) development in which we should all progress. It would certainly be nice if we could just take a pill or an injection, but that is not the way growth comes. God created us as beings who can learn and grow and has also provided the means in Christ for glorious transformation of our lives to take place as we yield to His Will. May we continue to focus on the example of Jesus as we strive toward further maturity in Christ. ( Ephesians 4:13; Colossians 1:28)

Have a great day GROWING ONWARD AND UPWARD IN THE LORD!
Carl

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