[Editor's note: Here's a great guest article today, again on the needed topic of spiritual growth.]

Growing in the Faith by Wayne Pope

Even in the midst of trouble and trials, the church in Thessalonica was making spiritual progress. Many of us today are facing issues and problems, and the question may be asked, “Are we growing in the faith?” Growing in faith is both necessary and vital to our salvation. Many ask the question of what it means to grow in faith. Three basic elements are involved.

First, growing in faith demands that we listen to the will of God. Paul wrote that faith comes by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17), so in order to grow in faith we must study the Word. It is difficult to ever possess assurance or confidant trust in God if we do not practice a diligent study of the Bible.

Additionally, we will never grow if we do not desire to be fed with the Word. Saving, active, and growing faith cannot be sustained without a steady diet of Bible Study.

Growing in faith also demands we live the will of God. Faith apart from works is useless and dead (James 2:14-26). If we want to make our calling and election sure, then our faith must grow by adding to it the Christian graces (2 Peter 1:5-7).

As knowledge is acquired, we must learn to use it wisely and with all patience, godliness, and brotherly kindness. Only those who exercise their faith can be said to possess a growing faith.

Third, growing in faith demands that we love the will of God. Each of us should grow in faith enough to serve God because of our love for Him, not entirely motivated out of a fear of punishment. One who has grown in faith does not view the commandments of God as grievous or burdensome, but he views them as an honor and a privilege (1 John 5:3).

Growing faith learns the joy and happiness of serving God while hungering and thirsting for its precepts. “Oh, how I love thy law! It is my mediation all the day” (Psalm 119:97).

Has your faith grown? Are you progressing in faith to say you listen to, live, and love the will of God? If not, begin today to awaken your dormant faith.

“Continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel.” (Colossians 1:23)

Wayne is the minister of involvement at the Broken Arrow, Olka., church. Article used by permission.