In Touch - Aug. 13, 2006
- Sign Up for Email?
- Published Aug 11, 2006
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
Formula for Personal Growth
God was gracious enough to provide us a sure formula for personal spiritual growth: Instruction plus involvement equals spiritual growth.
James tells us that the first step is to be an effective, involved listener of the Word. If we just read the Bible or listen to a sermon and do not concentrate on the material, or if we allow ourselves to be distracted, then we are not absorbing the instruction God intends for us. There are two kinds of listeners, one who is careless and one who is intent and attentive.
However, instruction alone does not grow the Christian. Unfortunately, many believers mistakenly assume that more factual knowledge of the Bible equals more intimate knowledge of God and His ways.
The only way to grow spiritually is to make the truth you learn your very own, to grasp it and apply it to your life. You are to become a doer of the Word.
Jesus involved Himself in the lives of people, from the "elite" to the most despised and rejected sinners. We are to use Him as our model as we love others (the Great Commandment), witness to others (the Great Commission), and serve others (the Great Commitment).
All believers have the life of Christ living within them through the Holy Spirit. And remember, Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
FEATURED RESOURCE
Summer Renewal Kit
Have you found yourself so busy with life that you are missing the little moments when God would like to meet with you? Let the Summer Renewal Kit help you slow down... You will be surprised how these little moments with God can renew, recharge, and refresh your spirit! Order your Summer Renewal Kit here.
FEATURED RESOURCE
Facing Life’s Obstacles:
Learn that you can tackle any obstacle when relying on God’s power to give you courage and strengthen your faith. Order your copy here.
FEATURED RESOURCE
How strong is your faith?
Your faith is often measured in how you handle adversity. Visit www.charlesstanleyinstitute.com and enroll in the free Faith Foundations course “Measuring Your Spiritual Growth.”
To see more resources from In Touch Ministries, please visit us at www.intouch.org or go directly to our bookstore at In Touch Ministries.
