PHILIPPIANS 4:10-13 – I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
THEME OF THE DAY: A SIGN OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH. How would we know we are experiencing obedience to the command Peter gives at the close of his second letter – But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen (2 Peter 3:18)? What is Peter saying? This isn’t about filling our head with a lot of Bible knowledge. Knowledge is important but it is not the end. It is the means to the end of what grace does – transforms us into the image of Christ which is God’s design for our lives and the ultimate goal of the Christian life. So we may conclude that Peter’s last words define what is a key sign of spiritual growth – maturing in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.
As we grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus, what would be signs of the spiritual growth or maturity that is to be the result? First, there is the growth in Christlikeness, particularly, His character – the fruit of the Spirit – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23). This is not transformation done by us, but to us as we obey God’s Word. Remember, we are not fruit producers but fruit bearers so we have a personal responsibility and privilege to bear the fruit of Christ’s character as we obey His commands. So, go through God’s “produce line” and examine yourself by His fruit of the Spirit. We will learn quickly if we are spiritually growing in Christ.
Another sign of spiritual growth is found in today’s scripture. It is what the Apostle Paul learned and we must as well. Spiritually growing or mature Christians are contented Christians. This is not an easy lesson to learn for it requires a heart and mind submitting to God’s sovereignty without complaining and rebelling against God’s sovereignty. Wherever we are in life; vocational, relationships, location . . . keep adding to the list . . . to be able to accept all with peace and rest is Godly contentment. In the midst of deep and long seasons of trial, a contented heart says “It is the Lord. He is good. I will trust and rest in Him, His promises, and His presence and be content.
Spiritual growth in Christ. Its signs are growing in the likeness of the Lord Jesus and being content with where we are and what we have. May we be good learners in God’s school of discipline to learn contentment. It is most pleasing to Him when His children grow in both.
PRAYER: “Father, forgive me for seeking in the world what is only in Your Son.”
QUOTE: “Learn contentment, know joy. Be discontent and forfeit Christ’s joy.”
In the affection of Christ Jesus,
Pastor Jim