What Helps You Grow? (Part I)

(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)

Colossians 2:23 These rules may seem wise…But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires.

A person can be confused reading and studying the Scriptures. On the one hand, Jesus, Paul, and others refute others’ teachings that favor with God can be gained by doing certain things. On the other hand, Jesus, Paul, and others share the importance of doing certain things. Some may question, isn’t this contradictory? The answer, of course, is no. 

Think of it this way: imagine you plant a garden in the same soil every year. Over time, the quality of the crops diminish. You buy higher quality seeds, but the crops continue to fail. Why? Because the nutrients in the soil have been used up. More most be added to the soil in order for the crops to grow. 

God made people in such a way that we truly can grow closer to Him and live in union with Him. It won’t come from a lifestyle of obeying certain rules. But there are healthy practices that can keep the soil of your soul rich for growth. For example, accepting Sabbath as a gift to be received is different than requiring Sabbath as a law to be obeyed. 

READING & PRAYERS:

     MATTHEW 13:1-9  (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: What might be one “nutrient” which need to be added to the soil of your soul? In what ways will adding it help you to grow? 

DIGGING DEEPER: Consider the possibility of registering for the Emotionally Healthy Spirituality course at SRC. 

Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, when I think about my life, how I spend my time, energy, and money, I can easily discover areas of my life that are not helping me grow closer to You. Continue to help me discover the many ways in which I numb or seek “relief.” Even more, help me to discover what it is I’m trying to numb. May I bring all of these things to Your feet, and find rest and peace in You. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)