The Pathway of Spiritual Growth
Romans 8:29
For those
whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son,
in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
God
predestined us to grow into His likeness, but this doesn't happen at the moment
we are saved. While we are redeemed by the Savior's precious blood and
immediately have a new heart, our transformation is a lifelong process.
The Holy
Spirit enables this journey. Growth is impossible without Him, regardless of
our efforts. Yet we can welcome or hinder His transforming hand.
One way we
give God willing access to our lives is by obeying this mandate in Romans 12:2:
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing
of your mind...¡¨
Everyone
chooses either a biblical or worldly philosophy as his or her source of
truth--and that choice shapes the mind and spirit. Therefore, the Lord tells us
to immerse our mind in Scripture, allowing Him to mold us into His beautiful
image.
The Bible
story about the Israelites wandering in the wilderness illustrates this
principle. After saving them from Pharaoh's abuse, God did not bring them
immediately to the Promised Land. The Lord knew doing so would bring sinful
ways with them. Instead, He led them to the wilderness and gave the Ten
Commandments. Only after they learned to obey and turn to almighty God were
they ready for the next step.
The process
of sanctification isn't always pleasant. In fact, it's often painful for us,
just as it was for the Israelites. In God's amazing wisdom and love, however,
He knows what we need to leave our old ways that lead to death. And He builds
new character in us--full of life and joy.