James 1:22
Growing in Christ involves far more than just attending church,
tithing, and listening to a sermon. In fact, many believers do these yet
remain stagnant in their walk. There are two elements necessary for us
to become more like Jesus: instruction and involvement.
The first of these, learning truth, is vital to a healthy walk with
God. Our Savior proved the importance of instruction by devoting much of
His time on earth to it. The apostle Paul is another example, as he
wrote letters to educate Christians about godliness.
So how can we gain knowledge and understanding? One of the most
important and effective ways is to read the Word of God. Scripture
instructs us that just as newborns crave milk, we are to desire His Word
so that we might grow. I pray your spiritual thirst will become
insatiable.
Yet simply listening to the truth does not mean that we've acquired it. I know many people who love attending Bible
studies and expanding their knowledge base, but their lives remain
unchanged. Just as today's passage teaches, we have to apply the Word to
our lives. Even so, actual growth requires more than merely inputting
information. It requires action. James 2:26 states, "For just as the
body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead."
Are we careless hearers, deceived into thinking that we're growing? Or
are we listening intently and abiding in the truth? If we're truly
maturing, our lives will be increasingly Christlike, and our desires
will align more closely with God's heart. Make sure that you are
listening and responding to His truth.
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