EXPECT GOD TO HELP YOU GROW SPIRITUALLY

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. GALATIANS 6:9 (NLT)

When you think about your walk with Jesus, some days you may wonder, “Why is it taking so long to see progress? I’m still struggling with so many problems. When will I finally get it right?” Spiritual growth is like the growth we see in nature—the best fruit ripens slowly. Our problem is that we tend to be impatient; we dig up the seed to check the progress of its growth and that slows down the process! If you’re not seeing as much growth at you’d like, don’t despair. Growth takes time. God’s wisdom says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Try these steps to spiritual growth: Nurture growth with God’s Word. When you read the promises of God again and again, they build your faith and renew your certainty that fruit is coming, even though you may not see it now: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1). Cooperate with God in the pruning. Praise God for the work he’s doing in your life, remembering that he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more (John 15:2 NLT). Pray through the “fruit list.” Prayerfully mediate on the list of the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Ask God to produce this fruit in your life. Ask God to show you what you are you are doing to hinder its growth. Ask God to help you cultivate healthy habits in your life.