09/22/2025
SOME THOUGHTS ON GROWING OUR FAITH
A truth as old as time itself is you're either growing and developing—or declining and dying in your faith. There's no such thing as “status quo” when it comes to following Jesus. You can't hide spiritual development—and while we may mask spiritual stagnation for a season, it'll always be revealed.
When the Apostle Paul wrote his second letter to the Jesus followers in Thessalonica, he was so impressed with their growing spiritual maturity, he wrote these words in his initial greeting:
“...your faith is growing more and more.” (2 Thessalonians 1:3)
The Thessalonians' growing faith pleased Paul. This is vitally important since faith is either growing or declining—never staying the same. It’s also why the Bible commands spiritual growth repeatedly. Paul wrote:
“Be growing in the knowledge of God.” (Colossians 1:10)
Growing our faith was also a central message of Peter, who wrote:
“Grow up in your salvation.” (1 Peter 2:2)
“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18)
Truthfully, spiritual growth isn’t optional—and doesn’t happen by accident. We must be intentional in growing our faith. It won’t just happen!
A master violinist was asked the secret of his success. “Planned neglect,” was his reply. He didn’t have time to practice sufficiently and keep up with the rest of his life, so he neglected everything else until he had practiced his violin. He used to take care of other things first and practice his violin second, but this resulted in mediocrity. So he began to practice his violin first and do everything else afterward. The result was his mastery of his profession.
This is a good word for those who wish to grow their faith. Jesus commanded us,
“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
What would it look like for you to neglect other things and seek God first? Many have found the best time for prayer and Bible study is first thing in the morning.
When's the best time for you to seek God and grow your soul?
Bishop Jeff Greenway
