Grow in Grace: The Main Ingredient in Personal Growth

Grow in Grace: The Main Ingredient in Personal Growth

As Christians, our heart's desire is to grow spiritually and become more like Christ. This desire is not just a one-time event but a lifelong journey. Personal growth is not an option but a necessity for believers who want to remain steadfast in their faith. However, many of us struggle with how to grow spiritually. We read books, attend conferences, and listen to sermons, but still, we feel stuck. What is the main ingredient in personal growth? The answer is simple but profound - grace.

What is Grace?

Grace is a word that is often used in religious circles, but what does it mean? The simplest definition of grace is "unmerited favor." In other words, grace is God's undeserved love and kindness towards us. We cannot earn grace; it is a gift that God freely gives to us. The Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."

Grace is not just for salvation, but it is also the foundation for our daily lives as believers. We cannot grow spiritually without God's grace working in us. Paul acknowledges this truth in 1 Corinthians 15:10, "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me."

How Does Grace Help Us Grow?

When we understand that grace is the foundation of our spiritual growth, it changes how we approach our relationship with God. We no longer strive to earn God's approval through our works but instead rest in His grace. This doesn't mean we become lazy or complacent in our faith, but we recognize that our growth comes from God's work in us, not our own effort.

Paul writes in Philippians 2:12-13, "Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

Our growth in grace is not a solo effort but a partnership with God. He is the one who initiates, sustains, and completes our spiritual growth. We cannot grow without His grace working in us. The more we understand and rely on His grace, the more we will grow in our relationship with Him.

How to Grow in Grace?

So, how do we grow in grace? Here are a few practical steps:

1. Study God's Word

The Bible is God's Word, and it is the primary way that He speaks to us. As we read and study the Bible, we learn more about God's character, His love for us, and His plan for our lives. The more we understand God's Word, the more we will grow in our relationship with Him.

Paul writes in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

2. Pray

Prayer is another essential aspect of growing in grace. It is our way of communicating with God and expressing our dependence on Him. Through prayer, we can ask for guidance, strength, and wisdom to grow in our relationship with Him.

Paul writes in Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

3. Connect with Other Believers

We were not meant to live the Christian life alone. We need the support and encouragement of other believers to grow in grace. Connecting with other believers through a local church, Bible study, or small group provides us with accountability, fellowship, and opportunities to serve others.

Paul writes in Hebrews 10:24-25, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

4. Serve Others

Serving others is a practical way to demonstrate God's grace in our lives. As we serve others, we reflect God's love and kindness to them. Serving also helps us to grow in humility and dependence on God.

Jesus teaches in Matthew 25:40, "And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'"

5. Obey God

Finally, obedience is a critical component of growing in grace. As we obey God's commands, we demonstrate our love for Him and our desire to follow Him. Obedience also helps us to grow in our understanding of God's character and His plan for our lives.

Jesus teaches in John 14:15, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments."

Conclusion

Personal growth is a lifelong journey that requires intentional effort and reliance on God's grace. As we study God's Word, pray, connect with other believers, serve others, and obey God, we will grow in our relationship with Him. However, it all starts with understanding that grace is the main ingredient in personal growth. We cannot grow without God's grace working in us. Let us rest in His grace and trust Him to lead us on this journey of personal growth.