Embracing Spiritual Growth as a Process: From Milk to Solid Food

"But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." - 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

In the journey of faith, we often long for instant transformation, for a sudden leap from spiritual infancy to mature sainthood. Yet, the reality of spiritual growth is far more akin to the gradual, sometimes stumbling process of a child learning to walk. It is a path marked not by sudden flights, but by steady, often challenging steps forward.

"The reality of spiritual growth is far more akin to the gradual, sometimes stumbling process of a child learning to walk."

The words of Jesus in Matthew 22:14 remind us of a sobering truth: "For many are called, but few are chosen." This statement challenges us to consider the cost and commitment involved in genuine spiritual growth. It is not a passive journey, but one that requires active participation, perseverance, and a willingness to be transformed.

Consider the apostle Paul's words in Philippians 3:12-14: "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

Here, we see the heart of a mature believer who recognizes that spiritual growth is an ongoing process. Paul, despite his profound encounters with Christ and his instrumental role in the early church, still saw himself as one pressing forward, still growing, still reaching for greater depths in his relationship with God.

This process of growth is beautifully illustrated in the metaphor of moving from milk to solid food in our spiritual diet. As the author of Hebrews states, "For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil" (Hebrews 5:13-14 KJV).

Just as a child gradually develops the ability to eat and digest more complex foods, so too do we, in our spiritual journey, grow in our capacity to understand and apply deeper spiritual truths. This growth is not automatic; it requires exercise, practice, and sometimes the discomfort of stretching beyond our current understanding.

An important aspect of this growth involves recognizing and addressing the "mixture" in our spiritual lives. This concept reminds us that growth often involves a process of purification, of separating the precious from the vile (Jeremiah 15:19). As we mature, we learn to discern and choose the pure milk of the Word (1 Peter 2:2) over the diluted mixtures that may have satisfied us in our spiritual infancy.

In practical terms, embracing spiritual growth as a process involves:

1. Cultivating patience with ourselves and others, recognizing that growth takes time.
2. Engaging regularly with God's Word, allowing it to challenge and transform our thinking.
3. Practicing spiritual disciplines that stretch us beyond our comfort zones.
4. Embracing trials as opportunities for growth, knowing that "tribulation worketh patience" (Romans 5:3 KJV).
5. Seeking accountability and fellowship with other believers who can encourage and challenge us.

As we embark on this journey of growth, we may find ourselves, like the disciples, occasionally crying out, "Lord, increase our faith" (Luke 17:5 KJV). This cry is not a sign of failure, but a healthy recognition of our need for continual growth and dependence on God.

Dear reader, wherever you find yourself on this journey of spiritual growth, be encouraged. The very desire for growth is a sign of life, a testament to the work of the Holy Spirit within you. Embrace the process, with all its joys and challenges. Remember, we are called to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12 KJV). This working out is a lifelong journey of discovery, transformation, and deepening intimacy with our Creator.

"Embrace the process, with all its joys and challenges. Remember, we are called to 'work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.'"

As we consider this process of growth, let us also reflect on the importance of discernment. In a world filled with various teachings and spiritual experiences, the ability to discern truth from error becomes increasingly crucial. This discernment is not just about knowledge, but about developing a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's guidance. As we grow, our capacity for discernment should also increase, enabling us to navigate the complexities of our spiritual journey with greater wisdom and clarity.

Furthermore, our journey of spiritual growth finds a beautiful parallel in the Song of Solomon. Just as the Shulamite woman grows in her love and understanding of her beloved, so too do we grow in our relationship with Christ. The Song speaks of a progressive intimacy: "Draw me, we will run after thee" (Song of Solomon 1:4 KJV). This imagery reminds us that our spiritual growth is not just about gaining knowledge, but about deepening our love relationship with the Lord. As we mature, our hearts should increasingly echo the words of the bride: "I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me" (Song of Solomon 7:10 KJV).

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the growth You have already worked in us, and with anticipation for the journey ahead. We thank You for Your patience with us as we stumble and learn to walk in Your ways.

Lord, we ask for the courage to embrace the process of spiritual growth, with all its challenges and discomforts. Help us to move beyond the milk of elementary teachings to the solid food of deeper truths. Grant us discernment to recognize and remove any mixture in our spiritual lives that hinders our growth.

We pray for perseverance when the path seems difficult, for humility to learn from our mistakes, and for the joy that comes from drawing ever closer to You. May our lives be a testament to Your transforming power, and may we never cease growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Deepen our love for You, Lord, as we journey through the seasons of spiritual growth. Like the bride in the Song of Solomon, may our hearts be ever drawn to You, running after You with increasing devotion and intimacy.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

"But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." - 2 Corinthians 3:18 (KJV)

Based on Wade Taylor's message "The Song of Solomon — Part 3."