When I was a child I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things (I Cor. 13:11, KJV).

I was born again, but still doing worldly things. I was always outspoken, but my delivery was not always appropriate. I still enjoyed clubbing, drinking, and gossiping. Knowing these things were not representing Godly character, I still delighted I them. Years later, I realized I was not making any progress spiritually. I was still going to the same places, ding the same things, with the same people.

I always attended church, but our small group women’s Sunday School class made me realized I not only needed to change, but I could change. I also had a son by then and wanted to be my best self for him. Making a vision board and setting specific life goals started me on my way. I made sure my goals were SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-based. With the encouragement of my group, I made progress. My progression is evident to those around me.

Paul admits that he was not always spiritually mature. But wanting to please God motivated him to grow-up. He had a group of people who traveled with him and kept him encouraged. Dr. Luke, Timothy, Titus, Priscilla, Aquila, and Barnabas, among others. Through good times and bad, he pressed toward maturity in Christ Jesus.

If you have been in church a long time, but realize you a not growing spiritually, find a group of like-minded people. Make SMART goals and refuse to quit, no matter what obstacles life throws your way. Your spiritual growth will not only bless you, but all those around you. Get started growing today!

Prayer: Father God, see our hearts. We want to grow up, but don’t know how. Send someone into our lives to help us understand what the Holy Ghost is saying to us. We want to be better tomorrow than we are today.

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  • Reprinted with permission, this week’s blog is an excerpt from “Praise from the Pews: A 70 Day Devotional” (2017). If you were encouraged by this devotional, you will really be blessed by the other 89 devotionals offered in “Praise from the Pews.” It may be purchased on the home page of this web site and will be shipped to you speedily.