At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are dedicated to fostering spiritual growth and maturity. Jesus’ journey from childhood to adulthood provides a model for us to follow. His commitment to growing in wisdom and understanding is a testament to the importance of spiritual development in fulfilling our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us.” By following Jesus’ example, we can cultivate a life of purpose and impact.
Jesus’ Growth in Wisdom
Luke 2:52 tells us, “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.” This growth was essential for Jesus to fully understand His mission and withstand the challenges He would face, such as His temptation by Satan (Matthew 4:1-11). His dedication to learning and growing prepared Him for His ministry and ultimate sacrifice. Jesus’ growth in wisdom was not merely intellectual but encompassed every aspect of His being, including His spiritual, emotional, and relational development.
The Call to Spiritual Growth
At Lakeview Christian Church, we emphasize the importance of spiritual growth through study, prayer, and community. 2 Peter 3:18 encourages us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” By committing to spiritual growth, we equip ourselves to serve others and share the love of Christ effectively. Spiritual growth is a lifelong journey that requires intentionality, discipline, and a willingness to be transformed by God’s Spirit.
Practical Steps for Growth
We invite you to participate in Bible studies, prayer groups, and service opportunities at Lakeview Christian Church. These activities are designed to help you grow in wisdom and understanding, just as Jesus did. By engaging in these practices, we become better equipped to fulfill our mission and impact the world around us. Additionally, personal spiritual disciplines such as daily Bible reading, meditation, and journaling can enhance our growth and deepen our relationship with God.
Scriptural Insights
The Bible provides guidance on how to pursue spiritual growth. In Colossians 1:9-10, the Apostle Paul prays for the believers, saying, “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.” This passage highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding our growth and enabling us to live lives that honor God.
Conclusion: Jesus’ commitment to growth is a powerful example for us all. As we strive to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us,” let us dedicate ourselves to spiritual growth, seeking wisdom and understanding to fulfill our God-given purpose. Together, we can make a difference in our communities and beyond. By following Jesus’ path to spiritual maturity, we become vessels of His love and grace, equipped to serve and transform the world around us.
