But How, God?

Scripture

For you know that when your faith is tested, it stirs up in you the power of endurance -James 1:3

I've come to realize that my spiritual growth in God is an incremental process. If I don't track it, I may not even realize that I've grown in a certain area. It's easy to live this Christian life, moving in and out of circumstances, and not realize that God's hand has always been there to guide us. As you spiritually mature, you start to notice the ebbs and flows of your Christian journey. One reason for this is that you realize the importance of patterns and seasons in your life. Once you begin to pay attention, you'll know to seek God's counsel. 

So, how do we grow spiritually? We grow by passing tests with faith. Know that when we face various trials, we are not necessarily being punished, but being tested by God. He's developing endurance in you. Beloved, our spiritual growth is a hands-on process by God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, and believe it or not, by us. God allows situations to take place in our lives; we are responsible for walking in faith and remembering who we are in Christ and the grace we've received at the cross. As we face situations and temptations, we yield to the ministry of the Holy Spirit. He teaches us (spirit of knowledge) and gives us revelation for our situations (spirit of understanding). He instructs us (spirit of counsel) and reminds us of who we are in Christ Jesus. Then, He gives us the strength (spirit of might) to do what needs to be done in the situation. Our obedience often determines our outcome in any given circumstance. Beloved, get involved in the process of your growth.

Please understand that God does not tempt us. He allows us to be tempted so that we can grow. When we overcome temptations, we grow in our spiritual stature. The anointing upon our lives grows even more. You'll learn to discern the seasons you're in and the patterns in your journey. You'll know that you've grown based on your response to the circumstances and/or temptations in your life. When things arise, are you floundering, trying to figure out what is going on, or are you locked in the process described above with the Trinity? Our Christian journey doesn't just happen to us; it's an active process in which we're required to participate. Beloved, this is another reason that an intimate relationship with the Father is so vital. Our spiritual growth and victory depend on it. 

Prayer 

Father, we come before you seeking your guidance and strength for our spiritual journey. May our lives reflect the beauty of a heart fully devoted to you, Jesus Christ. Give us the strength to endure the unbearable in Jesus' name. Amen