Step by Step

On Sunday, I will continue in our series on "Happy New You" by preaching on how we grow as believers. We grow by taking steps of obedience. Sanctification is a step by step process.

You are where you are today because of the steps you have taken to get to this point in your life. You are headed somewhere now according to the steps you are taking. You are drawing closer to the Lord or you are drifting away from Him. There isn't really a "neutral" position in the Christian life.

Growth as a Christian takes EFFORT; it does not just happen. I have been reading a brand new book, by Dr. Andrew Davis, entitled: "An Infinite Journey: Growing Toward Christlikeness" Here is a section from the book that speaks to the realities of our growth as a believer.

"Unlike justification, sanctification is dependent upon a Christian's constant effort, struggle, faith, and obedience, in conjunction with the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Thus sanctification is a mysterious collaboration between the power of God and the efforts of the believer. ... The human side of sanctification is intense labor, working out salvation in fear and trembling. It is a serious struggle, a fight against the world, the flesh and the devil, and as far as the believer is faithful in this struggle, he will make progress in sanctification. Yet he does not struggle alone; rather it is God who is at work in him to will and to do according to God's good purpose."

I think the problem for many is that we think "I am saved, so that's it; that's what counts and that is what is most important." Those thoughts contribute to individuals who are anemic as Christians, at best. Yes, Salvation is important; but growth is also vital and growth takes effort.

I am excited about what we will learn on Sunday concerning our own spiritual growth. Let's pray together that the Lord would speak to each of us through His Word and that we will each take another step toward greater Christlikeness as a result of hearing and applying His Word to our hearts and lives.

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday!
Pastor Mike