5.29.22 (Both) Devoted – to Growing in Faith
Hebrews 5:11-14, Acts 16:13-15
Soon after The Big Event of Pentecost, when thousands were added to the young church, the followers of Jesus began every-day practices [Acts 2:42]. More, it was said that they were “devoted” to these habits of shared life together.
It raises the question of whether you and I are devoted to… anything. Do we focus on something or someone so much that other things fade to the background?
Sunday, the question is whether or not we are devoted to growing. Are spiritual and emotional growth and other ways to be mature — are they in your intentions, habits, and desires? Do we encourage growth in each other? (The surest way to make sure you grow is by encouraging another.)
One of the scriptures for Sunday [Hebrews 5:11-14] shares the frustrations of leading people who haven’t advanced in the faith as they should. They’re still suckling milk like babies instead of eating grown-up food. They seem to have been baptized and expect to coast until death. Amy Grant has a song from this passage: Fat Little Baby. (Read the lyrics here.)
Where do you honestly see yourself? Wherein have you grown in the last few years? How are you facing situations differently? Who are you caring for that you previously ignored?
Note that it is always God doing the ‘heavy lifting’ in our lives. Nonetheless, is your growth by accident or is it somewhat anticipated, planned, developed, prayed for, studied about… by you?
In the Acts of the Apostles — perhaps better labeled as the Acts of the Holy Spirit — the new day has so made its way into the souls of the disciples that they don’t even blink when invited into the home of a gentile [Acts 16:13-15]. That previously would have caused numerous church meetings!
(By the way, purple cloth was more expensive than even gold; that color was so very rare and difficult to obtain.)
I look forward to worshipping with you Sunday at 9:00 am for Traditional worship in the Sanctuary and at 11:00 in the New Room for Cross Connect. As always, I would love to get your comments or questions — ahead of time or afterwards. Just click here.