As I continue with the theme of growing in grace, today I want to share the 4th reason growing in grace is important for your soul (your mind, will, and emotions). “Growth in grace” pleases God. I love the analogy of the gardener that has been faithful in attending to their garden including watering, feeding, and yes weeding. Just like any gardener would know, it is a joyful occasion when the plants are growing, flourishing, and bearing fruit. On the flip side, it is disappointing to see the plants not growing, malnourished, and overcome with weeds. The same goes for our Christian walk with the Lord, He takes pleasure in all His children, especially when they are growing in grace and bearing fruit for the Kingdom. Growing in grace requires us to tend to our spiritual growth, nourishment, and pulling the weeds out, removing the sin. Let’s look at two suggested ways to begin pleasing the Lord – prayer and encouragement.
Today’s Scripture Reference
John 15:1 – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.”
John 15:8 – “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, so you will be My disciples.”
1st Suggested Way to Please God – Prayer
Colossians 1:9-14
Paul’s Prayer for the Colossians – Here Paul is expressing his concern that the Colossians come to a deeper understanding of the person and power of Christ. Paul prays that the Colossians would know the will of God, be able to apply the will of God to their lives, and then walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him.
If want to grow in Grace and please the Lord, let’s join Paul and pray this prayer over ourselves and those we lead.
We also see from Paul’s Prayer for the Colossians, four characteristics of a worthy walk:
1. Living a life marked by the fruit of good works.
2. Growing in knowledge of God by studying His word.
3. Strengthened by God for Endurance.
4. Having gratitude for God’s work of salvation.
2nd Suggested Way to Please God – Receive and Give Encouragement to Continue Growing
In 1 Thessalonians, we see how Paul is writing to this young church to encourage them in their newfound faith, to increase in their love for one another, and to rejoice, pray, and give thanks always. In Chapter 4:1:12, Paul gives them directions for growth to continue progressing and walking in a manner that pleases God. He wanted to remind them of his previous teaching on sexual and social matters. These young Thessalonian believers lacked the moral upbringing from the Mosaic Law provided in the Jewish community.
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 TPT: The Passion Translation - “Directions for Growth”
Life Application Questions
1. In Paul’s Prayer for the Colossians, which four characteristics of a worthy walk would you like to work on:
- To live a life marked by the fruit of good works.
- To grow in knowledge of God by studying His word.
- To operate out of God’s strength for increased endurance.
- To have a gratitude for God’s work of salvation in your life.
2. Who do you know that could benefit from prayer just like Paul prayed for the Colossians?
3. Who do you know that needs some encouragement to keep going, to keep increasing in areas that Paul encouraged the Thessalonians?
