Are You Growing In The Lord?

Psalms 1: 1-3 How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers.

He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water – Assuming that you have received Christ as your savior, this verse gives a description God has of you that may or may not be a present reality. You are like a tree planted by streams of water. The Lord has planted a seed on planet earth and that seed is in your heart. How is your tree growing? Are you getting sufficient water? Is the person you are projecting to the world accomplishing God’s purpose? Are you yielding Godly fruit in your season, or are your leaves withered? Do you prosper in whatever you do? The stream of water you have been planted by is God’s Word. Are you watering you tree each day?

It is time for a spiritual check-up.

Are you growing in the Lord? The seed planted is the Gospel. We are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Meditating day and night is a key to your transformation. Our thinking guides our actions. We need to develop a list of the ideas and philosophies of the world and measure these issues against God’s word. Then God through his word will make it clear to each of us the ways we need to change our thinking in order to be the person God wants us to be. Meditating day and night means continually focusing on specific verses that speak to areas of sin and failure in your daily walk. If you are not consistent in your devotions, then meditating on any scripture consistently is a good first start. Begin by taking verses that have meaning to you. Write them down, read them over and over. Memorize them and silently concentrate on what God is saying to you personally and what he wants you to do. Ask yourself probing questions like: How does this apply to my family? My work? My role as a Christian? How does Jesus want me to change?

Here are some more questions that help us to determine if we are moving towards where Christ wants us to be. Is your life a positive witness for Christ? What would others say about your Christian witness? Would others point to you as someone that projects the love of Christ? What would Jesus say about your relationship with him? Are you discipling anyone? Have you shared you’re testimony or the Good News of Christ with anyone recently? Does the love of Christ control your life? Do you study the Bible daily? Do you pray to God daily? Do you attend church regularly? Are you growing in the fruit of the spirit and Christlike character qualities? Depending on the answers to these questions, we can better know if we are growing in our relationship with Christ. This list is meant to be a source of encouragement. If not, it can help you identify areas where you can focus to improve you walk with the Lord.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
God Bless You My Friend, Bob