When a believer consistently walks in the light, he will undoubtedly grow spiritually. The born again experience does not end after receiving salvation, but continues to spiritual growth. Peter tells us that we need to grow in our knowledge of Jesus and also to have that intimate relationship with Him because the more we know Him, the more of Him will be seen in our lives as we are transformed into His likeness.
This, however, is not referring to physical growth as can be exemplified with a plant in a garden. Peter rather was referring to spiritual growth, which signifies growing or drawing closer to God. Spiritual growth involves learning more about Jesus and allowing Christ to be formed in us.
We have to grow in our salvation. Biologically speaking, any child that refuses to grow after birth is an abnormal child and it will be a burden to the parents. This is what Christians who refuse to grow in the faith after being born again are to Jesus.
Anyone who is not growing after receiving Christ as Saviour will be dying. Peter admonished believers: “Like new born babies, crave pure spiritual milk that you may grow in your salvation,” (1 Pet 2:2). When we first come to the Christian faith (by salvation — born again), we begin with the basics of the gospel (spiritual milk). Milk is a necessary nourishment for newborn babies, hence the usage of the metaphor to describe the requirement for spiritual growth.
However, as we grow into maturity (become spiritual adults), we begin to feed on solid food. We go for something solid rather than milk. For spiritual maturity, we go deeper into the scripture and learn more about the doctrines of God.
To grow in our walk with God, we must study the Word of God. Paul admonished Timothy to study (not just read) the scripture, so that, he will “rightly divide” the Word. One of the sure ways of growing into spiritual maturity is diligent and regular study of God’s word. But this does not end there. The individual studying the word must have a determination to live it out. It is by living what one learned that one can walk in the light and show the light. “Let your light so shine before men, they may see your good works and glorify your father who is in heaven,” (Matt 5:16). A person who diligently studies the word and practices its teaching will be able to know the “dos” and “don’ts” in God’s word and through the guidance of the spirit, will not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).
Prayer is a spiritual weapon that helps believers to walk in the light. It removes the hindrances that stand between us and the sweet fellowship with God.
To walk in the light is to live a life that is governed by the word of God and guided by the Spirit of God. Since God is Light (1John 1:5), walking in the light is walking with God. It is abiding in Christ and obeying the word. Prayer empowers believers to live victoriously in a world filled with sin. In order to have spiritual life and energy, you must pray or else your spiritual journey may be overtaken with faults. Pray in your closet, and as you go about your daily labour let your heart be often uplifted to God. Satan cannot overcome him whose heart is thus stayed upon God.
• Today’s Nugget: Grow in grace
Prayer: Lord help me to know you the more. Prayer lines: 08033299824. E-mail: amadiabelukachi@gmail.com. Rev. (Dr.) Abel UkachiAmadi, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God, Nigeria
