Spiritual Growth

 

Life continually brings change to every human being on the planet. That’s because that is what life is. We change physically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually as we grow. Change is happening whether we realize it or not, whether we want it or not. Adapting in a positive way to change is essential for spiritual growth. Change is not easy, and we often resist it because we are more comfortable with the old—with what we are familiar with. But, like water that runs under the bridge, the old cannot stay, and the new will come whether we want it or not. One of the most important goals in life for the believer is to mature and grow up. Paul wrote to the Ephesians that we will grow and mature by speaking the truth in love (Eph 4:15).

Maturity takes us to noble and inspiring places, but the journey is always challenging and sometimes arduous. Occasionally, we dig our heels in, refuse to grow up, and make the necessary changes. When we do that, we suffer for it by preventing the growth that will make us more fulfilled.

We are petty if we refuse to grow and allow immaturity to control us. We react in petty ways and struggle with resentment, often exhibiting anger. But, when we grow, we deal with change and mature in the process. We let the petty things go and experience a far better version of life.

Learning to control our emotions when going through difficult circumstances and change is hard but essential. With every breakdown in self-control, we and others suffer the damage from our negative emotions. Likewise, we suffer from others’ lack of control.

My favorite word is the complete opposite of petty—it’s magnanimous. It means to show a lofty and courageous spirit. When we are resentful and refuse to understand why, we are usually being petty. When we can let go and move to better things, we are being magnanimous.” Petty means little and selfish, while magnanimous means big-hearted and generous.

Most often, the result of being magnanimous leads to redemption, our own and that of others. It involves forgiveness and allowing God’s grace to do its work.

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