Four Ways to Grow in Your Faith

As I talk to those new to their faith, I often find that they don't know where to start. They're excited about the possibilities but don't know the applicable ways to grow. If that's you or someone you know, this article will help you practically grow closer to Christ!

Here are four things to remember & practice when growing in your faith!

1. Spend undistracted time with God.

   
   

   You cannot grow in faith if you are not abiding in the Author of your faith. The more time you spend with Him, the deeper you'll grow.

   
   

   I like to begin my days with prayer, worship, and Bible reading. I make a twenty-five-minute timer, turn on my Do Not Disturb, and start praying. My prayer time always begins by thanking God for all He's done, who He is, and what He will do. I remind myself that thankfulness should precede any requests.

   
   

   After my time of gratitude, I pray over my life and ask the Lord to search me and make me more like Him. During this time, I allow Him to truly search me. Sometimes, I present requests in my personal life, while other times, I sit in His presence and listen for a while.

   
   

   Then, I intercede for others. I pray for needs within my sphere of influence, along with needs in our world. Finally, I end my prayer time by thanking Him again. I try to remind myself that He never has to answer my prayers; He lovingly chooses to.

   
   

   After my timer is up and I've finished praying, I read the Bible. Sometimes, I read multiple chapters, while other times, I slow down and do a deeper study of a passage.

   
   

   I encourage you to find a pattern that works best for you. Find an amount of time to pray that's challenging yet doable. If you get easily distracted, place yourself in an environment free of distractions. Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb. Wake up earlier so you can have quiet time.

   
   

2. Find a Home Church

   
   

   I understand that you don't have to go to church to be saved. Anyone can proclaim the name of Jesus at any place and at any time. However, you do have to be in a healthy church community to experience the fullness of growth that Christ has for you. Don't believe me? Read the book of Acts, specifically chapters one and two. The Bible is clear; Church involvement is a crucial part of our growth.

   
   

   If you need to find a church, start today! Don't wait; Google is available 24/7. The longer you wait, the greater the chance you'll lose your excitement to grow.

   
   

3. Ask Questions!

   
   

   I have the privilege of working with a few people newer to their faith. I mean this wholeheartedly; they always ask great questions. Sometimes, they ask about a passage in Scripture, but other times, they ask about a deep theological issue that's left scholars partially divided. Every time, we dive into what the answer is/could be. It's enriching for both of us.

   
   

   Questions are not a sign of weakness but rather the opposite; they showcase one's dedication to growth.

   Ask yourself questions. Ask God questions. Ask a mentor questions. Nothing is off-limits!

   
   

4. Watch Bible Overviews

   
   

   This link takes you to the Bible Project. This website offers many resources to learn more about the Bible.

   
   

   I often watch Old Testament/New Testament overviews of various books. The authors do an incredible job of showcasing the passage's historical context while still tying it to today. This website also highlights topics in the Bible. Do some exploring and see all they have to offer!

   
   

   __________________________

   
   

   I'll leave you with this quote by Neil N. Andersen:

   
   

   "Your faith will not grow by chance, but by choice."

   
   

   Andersen's words ring true for us today. Your faith grows by the grace of God as you intentionally choose to pursue Him. As you put in the effort, the Holy Spirit will work in you to increase your knowledge and make you more like Jesus (a process called sanctification).

   
   

   Keep pushing to grow, friend.

   
   

A great graphic to remember four ways to grow in your faith!