Two Ways to Grow

God expects us to grow: to become more like Jesus, to increase in faith, to develop the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23) and the Christian graces (2 Peter l:5-11), etc. How can this be accomplished? The New Testament mentions at least two factors that are essential to spiritual growth. One is Bible study. “…like newborn babes, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation…” (l Peter 2:2). “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof for correction, for training in righteousness…” (2 Tim.3:16). Another growth factor is suffering. Repeatedly the New Testament speaks of the spiritual growh that results from trials (Rom. 5:3-5; Heb. 12:3-13; James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7). Knowing that God can use suffering for our good helps us to keep from despairing. We are supposed to grow, and we are supposed…