The opposite of growth is not stagnant—it’s withering.
Over the years I’ve heard people say that the Bible is too difficult to understand. While we might not grasp God’s full intent on every scripture every day the Spirit of God desires to open our understanding.
On the other hand, the Bible is filled with do’s and don’ts that are plain as daylight. Here’s one...
1 Peter 2:1-3 says this, "Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious."
Apart from God, our natural inclination is not towards good. Therefore, the Bible instructs us to lay aside what is natural to our being—things like selfishness, pride, and evil intent.
Laying aside is intentional and specific. Laying aside requires our continued observation and participation. Laying aside is a proactive approach to rid ourselves of destructive tendencies that cause growth deferral.
God will never force His principles upon us. Comparing our lives to that of an infant, today's sripture indicates that our bodies require specific foods (not just any food) to become healthy and strong. Proclaiming His words as proper food to build spiritually strong bodies, God encourages—yet commands—us to desire the pure milk of the word.
Appropriate amounts of vegetables, fruits, proteins, and water build strong bodies. While too much starch, sugars, and empty calories deplete our bodies of energy, iron, and minerals needed to thrive. Even when we don't want (or like) brussel sprouts, broccoli, and greens, we should prepare those healthy foods for our consumption.
Like it or not...Let's take charge of our growth process by seeking God's Word.
Let’s make decisions to lay aside, put off, and cast away all manners of evil. Let’s replace those behaviors with seeking God’s perspective and walking in His ways.