Devotions based on week 8 of Joy in the Journey: Growth (WATCH HERE)
Philippians 3:15-17 All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained. 17 Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.
Growth doesn’t happen by accident.
Paul has given the encouragement to forget what is behind and strain to what is ahead. Enthusiasm can get us started, but what are key things to sustain our growth? Just like a tree needs sunlight, water, and good soil, faith must be cultivated. Paul points us to three mindsets that will help us keep on the path of growth: maturity, consistency, and mentorship. These three are essential ingredients to keep growing in faith.
- Cultivate a Mature Mindset
Maturity doesn’t mean perfection. It means humbly recognizing we are works in progress and being open to correction and change. Growth in faith begins in the mind—a heart and mind that says, “I haven’t arrived, but I’m not staying where I am.”
Sometimes we resist growing because we think we already know enough. Paul warns against that kind of spiritual stagnation. A mature Christian welcomes ongoing input and direction from the Lord. Maturity consistently seeks God’s wisdom for areas that are unclear and decisions that are not obvious. Maturity is recognizing when we are off in our thinking or missing the mark in our lives and turning to the Lord to guide and to bring clarity to us. Growth takes time as we allow the Spirit of God to work in our hearts and minds.
2. Don’t Regress—Live Up to What You’ve Attained
Staying healthy and fit is a daily challenge. A week of doing nothing leaves your muscles atrophying. The same is true for our spiritual growth. Paul’s challenge here is simple: keep walking forward. Don’t let what you’ve gained be lost by apathy. If you’ve grown in prayer, don’t stop. If you’ve overcome a struggle, don’t go back. Don’t drift away from the habits or convictions that brought you closer to Jesus.
Spiritual growth often feels like walking uphill. If we stop moving forward, we start sliding backward. Paul’s charge is to continue walking in the light God has already given you. Even small steps make a difference.
3. Imitate Faithful Examples
Growth often requires examples. Paul knew this. That’s why he says, “Follow my example” and “keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” He wasn’t pointing to himself out of pride, but because he knew believers need tangible models of faith in action.
In our individualistic culture, we often try to grow alone. But God designed the Church so we can learn and grow together. Having a mentor, a small group, or godly friends can keep you on the path of growth. We grow faster and stronger when we grow together.
Apply: Who are your spiritual examples? Are you actively following anyone’s godly example—and are you setting one? Ask God to put faithful role models in your life and help you become one to others.
Ask God to shape your mindset to match His. Be teachable. What area of your life is God calling you to mature in right now—your attitude, priorities, generosity, forgiveness?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank You that You are not finished with me. I want to grow in faith, to press forward with purpose and maturity. Shape my thinking, increase my hunger for You, and keep me walking in the truth You’ve already shown me. Surround me with faithful believers who inspire and challenge me. And help me to be that kind of example to others. In Your name I pray, Amen.