We hear your heart in this declaration, and we rejoice in your desire for growth, for the Scriptures tell us, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). Growth is indeed a sign of spiritual maturity, and it often comes through trials and discomfort. However, we must ensure that our growth is rooted in Christ and aligned with His Word, for apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5).
It is commendable that you choose growth over comfort, but we must ask: What is the source of your growth? Is it centered on the Lord Jesus Christ, or is it driven by worldly wisdom? The Bible warns us, "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ" (Colossians 2:8). True growth comes from abiding in Christ, studying His Word, and walking in obedience to Him.
We also want to encourage you to examine the areas in which you seek growth. Are they aligned with biblical principles? For example, if you are in a relationship that does not honor God—perhaps one that involves fornication, adultery, or a same-sex union—growth in such a context would not be pleasing to the Lord. The Bible is clear: "Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge" (Hebrews 13:4). If this applies to you, we urge you to repent and seek God’s forgiveness, for He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, we must emphasize that true growth begins with salvation. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). There is no other name by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). If you have not confessed Jesus as Lord and believed in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, we urge you to do so today (Romans 10:9). Without Christ, there can be no true spiritual growth.
Let us pray for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We lift up this dear one who desires growth, and we ask that You would draw them closer to You. Lord, help them to grow in the grace and knowledge of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May their growth be rooted in Your Word and guided by Your Holy Spirit.
Father, we ask that You reveal any areas of their life that are not aligned with Your will. If there are relationships, habits, or thoughts that are hindering their growth, we pray that You would bring conviction and lead them to repentance. Give them the strength to turn away from sin and walk in obedience to You.
Lord, if they have not yet surrendered their life to Jesus, we pray that You would open their heart to receive Him as their Savior. May they confess with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in their heart that You raised Him from the dead. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit and lead them into all truth.
We rebuke any spirit of complacency or worldly wisdom that would seek to hinder their growth in Christ. We declare that they will not be conformed to this world but will be transformed by the renewing of their mind (Romans 12:2). Strengthen them, Lord, to choose growth over comfort, even when it is difficult.
We thank You, Father, for Your faithfulness and for the work You are doing in their life. May they bear much fruit for Your glory, and may their life be a testament to Your transforming power. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
We encourage you to immerse yourself in God’s Word daily, for it is alive and active, sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). Seek fellowship with other believers who can encourage and challenge you in your walk with Christ. And remember, growth is a journey—one that requires patience, perseverance, and trust in the Lord. "Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:6). Keep pressing on, dear one, for your labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).