“If one of your goals in 2019 is to grow spiritually, focus on doing these four simple things…”
(Tim Barnett – Stand To Reason) The new year brings with it New Year’s resolutions. Many people will look to better themselves physically. They might flood to the gym, start new diets, and quit unhealthy habits, all in pursuit of this goal.
I have some similar physical goals. But my goals aren’t merely focused on the physical. As a follower of Christ, I’m looking for ways to grow spiritually. Paul writes, “For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:8).
So, how do we grow in godliness?
Here are four simple ways to grow spiritually.
1. Speak to God
Without constant communication, any relationship will not last. Yet, many Christians, who profess to have a relationship with God, rarely—or never—speak to Him. In fact, some seem content to let weeks or even months go by without ever talking to God. Remarkably, many of these same people wonder why their spiritual lives seem stale.
This isn’t complicated. Relationships need communication.
Because I love my wife and want a lasting relationship with her, I talk to her. I share my thoughts with her. I tell her about my struggles. I thank her for all the things she’s done for me. I ask her for help when I need it.
Likewise, because I love God and want a lasting relationship with Him, I talk to Him. Paul tells the Church at Philippi, “[D]o not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Phil. 4:6).
At this point, you might be thinking, “Tim, it’s a lot easier to talk to my loved ones because they talk back.” This leads to the next point.