Biblical Answer

Prioritizing Spiritual Growth During a Season of Decline

As we navigate through a season of decline, it's essential to prioritize spiritual growth to ensure we remain grounded in our faith. This requires a deliberate effort to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and to focus on the things that edify others. According to Robert J. Keeley, spiritual growth is not optional, and it's crucial to examine where we have become sluggish and lost interest spiritually. This could be due to a lack of engagement in spiritual disciplines, involvement in church, or neglecting to prioritize our relationship with God.

To prioritize spiritual growth during a season of decline, it's essential to focus on the basics of a Christian life, such as knowing the Bible, praying, and serving others. We must not put the cart before the horse, sharing our faith to grow spiritually, but rather growing as we serve Him. This involves developing a daily prayer habit, finding an older Christian friend to mentor us, and committing to regular spiritual disciplines. It's also crucial to recognize that spiritual growth is not self-absorbed, but rather, it's marked by concern for others, and we should pursue what will edify others.

In a season of decline, it's easy to become complacent and lose sight of our spiritual growth. However, it's essential to remember that spiritual growth takes place through deliberate effort and commitment. We must push our faith beyond our expectations, take steps of faith, and regularly exercise our spiritual muscles to grow stronger. As we prioritize spiritual growth, we must also be mindful of our limitations and not compare ourselves to others. Rather, we should focus on our own growth and development, seeking to become more like Christ and to edify others in the process. By prioritizing spiritual growth during a season of decline, we can ensure that we remain grounded in our faith and continue to grow in our relationship with God.