By
Lynn Parker
Those words, often uttered in prayer, make up a proper
request. We all should desire to be stronger spiritually
(II Pet. 3:18). We should indeed long for growth (I Pet.
2:1ff). Let us examine this prayer request, as well as our
attitude and efforts toward spiritual growth.
What would you think of a man who prayed, “God, please
help me not to lose my job,” and then that same man slept
in and was late to work every day? I have heard both men
and women who say they want to be stronger spiritually. I
have heard some say they want to know the Bible better. I
have heard some folks piously sing, “More, More About
Jesus.” And then I have seen the very same souls skip
Bible classes on Sunday and Wednesday. Any wonder why
there is no growth????
When ones attendance at worship assemblies is “hit and
miss,” then that person will exhibit spiritual stagnation.
When a tree in the orchard does not grow, we give it extra
attention. When a Christian does not grow, we try to give
some extra attention as concerned brethren. After all, we
have an obligation to build up each other. “So then let us
follow after things which make for peace, and things
whereby we may edify one another” (Rom. 14:19).
Your brethren cannot help you grow if you do not engage in
really challenging, serious Bible study. Some brothers and
sisters have been in the church for 10 years or more and
never yet made 10 pages of study notes. Folks, casual
reading of the Bible is not Bible study. We cannot edify
you if you are not in the assembly of the saints on a
regular basis. If students at public school attended like
some of my brethren attend the worship assembly, they
would be charged with truancy!
We cannot help you grow if you persist in saying, “This is
not a convenient time” or employing similar excuses.
Everyone is busy. Everyone has more to do than week to get
it done. Still, if heaven is really important to you, you
will make time to sit down and study. We have the
teachers. We have a strong desire to see you grow. We can
come to your house and spend an hour a week in diligent
study with you. We are ready. Still, we cannot help you
grow if you never make an effort or lift a finger. We will
make the time—will you?
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