While watching HGTV, we often find inspiration in the before and after pictures of a remodeled house. In reality, a similarly impressive makeover can be seen in the evolution of our spiritual path. Continuously growing spiritually, we strive to ceaselessly deepen our connection with God, finding new ways to strengthen and transform our spiritual walk.
Here are 3 ways to evolve spiritually:
- Take the time to remodel your prayers. In Mark 11:24, we learn that “if you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you.” This verse and our knowledge that God is all powerful and can bring any and all of our desires to fruition may lead us to treat our prayers like a Christmas wish list. Instead of delving into our relationship with the Lord, we may just rattle off what we want and call it a night. However, the Scriptures teach us that it is imperative we continuously mature in our spiritual walk, meaning we need to outgrow this self-centered form of prayer in favor of selfless worship. Today, put God first by truly worshiping Him and giving thanks for your blessings before praying for yourself and your family. As you think about that, reflect on these words: “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” Colossians 4:2 (ESV)
- Shift your priorities toward God. It is easy to put yourself and your own interests first in your day to day life; in fact, this was exactly how Peter behaved. Peter thought about fishing morning, noon, and night, going out on his boat when he was happy and retreating to fishing when he was defeated. Yet there came a time when his spiritual walk evolved and his priorities shifted. One night, he and some of the disciples went on an unsuccessful fishing trip. As they rowed back, they saw Jesus on the shore and heard him call out that there were more fish than they could imagine just beside their boat. However, instead of excitedly lowering the net, Peter jumped straight into the water and swam to shore: Jesus was now the most important thing in his life. Today, shift your own priorities toward God to transform your spiritual walk. As you do so, remember these words: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
- Let your heart come full circle. Not only can we transform our own spiritual walk by remodeling our prayers and shifting our priorities, but we can also open our hearts to allow others to change us for the better. Before Joshua conquered Jericho, he sent two spies ahead to stay in the house of Rahab, a former prostitute. During their time there, Rahab asked them question after question about their God, and her heart was touched by their answers. In fact, she began wishing that their Lord could become her God as well. The heart that had once guided her to prostitution had come full circle and now yearned to know God. Today, open your heart to God and allow it to come full circle. As you do so, remember these words: “I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 11:19 (ESV)
Today, turn your blues to blessings by continually remodeling your spiritual path.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.” Matthew 5:14-15 (ESV)
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