You Can Actually Be Strong By Implementing These 5 Things
We all appreciate physical strength. The problem is, we don’t do what it takes to get there!
Spiritual strength also comes from certain habits. Being spiritually strong is vital in overcoming temptation, recovering from setbacks, and staying positive in negative environments.
“And the child grew and became strong in spirit” (Luke 1:80).
I’ve been growing as a Christian for 51 years. Here are my top 5 practices to constantly grow inwardly in spiritual strength:
I keep my conscience clean.
We all fall short. We all have character issues that need growth. We all make mistakes. That does not mean you are not growing!
Forgiveness is instant, growth is gradual. When you fail, be “quick to repent.” Receive the cleansing of the blood of Christ. Then, ask God to show you the areas of growth you need to be able to resist that temptation next time.
I listen to faith building teaching.
When I exercise, when I am driving alone, I always have on a teaching that is “edifying” (building me up). “Faith comes by hearing” (Rom. 10: 17). Listen to people who believe the promises of God and teach you how to apply them to your daily circumstances.
I limit my exposure to negative, fearful input. People who don’t know God’s Word are in great despair, but I am not! I refuse to let someone dump their “garbage truck” in the front yard of my mind.
I spend time alone with God.
Even a half-hour alone with God, worshipping Him, reading and praying through daily Bible readings strengthens my inner man. For a free copy of my online reading plan and devotional for 2021 click HERE).
I try to work out physically for about a half-hour a day. Why not spend that much time developing my spiritual strength?
I find an outlet to serve.
We don’t just “take in” to grow. We also “give out.”
When you take on a new challenge, do something you’ve never done, or invest time in someone else YOU GROW. Find your passion and an outlet you can consistently stretch yourself in. Someone needs your strengths to help them where they are weak.
I develop godly friendships.
Growth comes from associating with “growing people.” You are “growing” where they are “going.”
Negative, bitter, defeated, stagnated people sap the life out of you. You eventually are pulled down to the level of their minds and actions.
Start some new relationships. Get in a small group with people who are seeking to grow in their walk with God.
These 5 POWERFUL things put you in an “environment of growth.”
As we are moving toward a new year, set your goals around growing in these 5 areas: “your conscience, your media, your devotions, your ministry, and your friendships.”
Make a plan. Live strong. Grow in grace. Renew your mind. Grow in faith. Be a blessing. Find your friends.