Spiritual development

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Faith, as it is used, develops and grows even more in the midst of difficulties. We can choose that God is always working for our good, and that is the confidence we have.

that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning schemes of deceitful plotting, 15 but speaking the truth in love, may grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ. 16 From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it supplies supplies, according to the proper functioning of each part, makes growth so that the body builds itself up in love.

Ephesians 4:14-16

Today again we have a lesson from the apostle Paul about growth, but growth "in Christ." As believers, as children of God, we strive day after day to draw closer to God. Every moment we seek to have the Lord always on the throne of our lives; we seek to manifest the nature of Christ through our lives. Throughout this text, we see two very interesting spiritual aspects that we can emphasize and thus evaluate our spiritual progress.

First, we must understand that one evidence of spiritual growth or development is a greater awareness of sin and repentance. Avoiding this awareness is, in a way, a kind of rebellion, since as we understand and mature, we turn away from evil and seek righteousness in the Word. This does not mean we are infallible or perfect; that is impossible. But we learn to live in dependence on God and repentance. As we spend more time in contact with God through His Word, our desire to obey increases, leaving sin aside; in other words, sin has less attraction for us.

Another important point that characterizes spiritual growth is that joy increases even in the midst of struggles. Faith is strengthened even in the midst of difficulties as we live with greater confidence and perseverance. Our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ deepens, and trials are simply opportunities for growth and maturity.

My brothers, count it all joy when you face various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 But let perseverance have its perfect work, that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.

James 1:2-4

It is the guardian of our lives. And every time we recognize everything we have experienced and understand that it has been permitted by God, we mature and understand that He is working behind every situation solely for our good.