Topic: BUILDING SPIRITUAL CAPACITY FOR HARD TIMES
Text: Romans 5:3
Introduction: Difficult times are not new experiences to the followers of Jesus Christ. They are seasons designed by God to build His children’s character and, in the end, reveal His glory to mankind. Our experience in difficult times is largely shaped by our spiritual approach to it. Peace is not obvious until there’s a storm. Supply is not tangible until there’s scarcity. Romans 5:3. In clearer words, we grow during hardship (1 Thesa 1:6)
Discussion Points:
Why Is Spiritual Growth Important?
Spiritual growth is important because it brings us into:
Maturity Beyond Little Faith: To grow out of the experiences of a child in faith Galatians 4:1.
Manifestation of God’s Promises: To witness the fulfillment of God’s promises. Genesis 40-41 (Joseph’s interpretation of dreams).
Walking in Dominion: To live in the dominion of the Christ life within us.
Displaying God’s Glory and Light: To manifest God’s glory before humanity for their salvation and conviction. Colossians 1:27
Heighten our “receptacles” and receive insight for the future:
To receive divine insight for what lies ahead. Genesis 41:25-28 (Joseph’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream).
To sharpen our signal receiving ability
How Can We Grow Spiritually?
Desire and decide to grow. It’s first a choice: Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Peter 2:2-4, 1 Corinthians 14:1. Growing in life is a choice GOD gave to us, except for bodily growth. All other growth requires our active decision and action. We must first desire growth, unfortunately, most people only desire financial growth.
Study, Meditate, and Apply God’s Word:
Study the Scriptures diligently.
Meditate on what you’ve learned, allowing it to sink deep into your heart.
Apply the principles and teachings to your life.
Reference: James 1:22-23 (TLB).
Consistent Prayer and worship: Prayer is a vital dialogue with our loving heavenly Father. Even when it feels difficult, we should pray persistently. Experience shows that worship is a strong part of prayer and it increases our consecration in prayer. Matthew 26:40-75, 1 Thessalonians 5:17.
Fellowship with Other Christians:
Fellowship involves spending time with others who love Christ.
Just as logs in a pile support each other for a good fire, Christians must stand together. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Fellowship is essential for Christian growth, unfortunately 2 Timothy 3:1-5 has happened to many.
Reference: Hebrews 10:23-25, Acts 2:42, 46.
Bearing Witness:
A witness testifies to what they have seen and heard.
A genuine Christian life is contagious; we cannot abstain from talking about Jesus.
Reference: Romans 1:14-16, 1 Peter 3:15, Acts 1:8.
Conclusion:
Remember, spiritual growth is a lifelong journey, and these principles guide us toward a deeper relationship with God and a more impactful life. You must seek to obey every word of GOD that you read and seek guidance from the more mature brethren in the fellowship or church.
