God’s Powered Growth: Embracing the Process
Isaac Megbolugbe
November 11,2024
Introduction
God’s powered growth in believers is a transformative journey marked by challenges, sacrifice and unwavering faith. It’s a process where pain precedes progress, and shredding occurs before strengthening.
The Shredding Process
Before empowering individuals, God often breaks them down to their core (Matthew 16:24). This shredding:
1. Exposes weaknesses
2. Tests resolve
3. Purifies motivations
Pain and Growth
Pain is an essential catalyst for growth (Romans 5:3-5). Embracing pain:
1. Develops resilience
2. Refines character
3. Deepens faith
Walking with God
As believers grow, some relationships change:
1. People may withdraw due to sacrifice requirements
2. Not everyone will understand the journey
3. God’s path isn’t always popular
Distinguishing Movement from Progress
Activity doesn’t equal advancement:
1. Assess your movement: Are you moving forward?
2. Evaluate companions: Who’s journeying with you?
3. Measure impact: Are you improving lives?
Key Principles
1. Surrender to God’s process
2. Embrace pain as growth fuel
3. Prioritize meaningful progress
Biblical Foundations
1. “Take up your cross” (Matthew 16:24)
2. “Count it all joy” (James 1:2-4)
3. “Faithful in the little” (Luke 16:10)
Reflection Questions
1. Am I willing to be shredded for growth?
2. Do I confuse movement with progress?
3. Who am I taking with me on this journey?
Conclusion
God’s powered growth demands surrender, resilience and faith. Embrace the shredding, pain and lonely moments, knowing they precede empowerment and transformation.
Supplemental Questions
Question 1
How does God empower believers?
Signs of Spiritual Growth
Spiritual growth is a lifelong journey, and its signs may vary depending on individual experiences and faith traditions. Here are some common indicators:
Inner Transformation
1. Increased self-awareness and introspection
2. Greater sense of peace, calm and contentment
3. Improved emotional regulation and resilience
4. Enhanced empathy and compassion
Spiritual Practices
1. Deepened prayer life and connection with God
2. Regular scripture study and reflection
3. Increased participation in spiritual community
4. Engagement in mindfulness and meditation
Character Development
1. Humility and willingness to learn
2. Forgiveness and letting go of grudges
3. Self-control and discipline
4. Kindness, generosity and service
Relationships
1. Deeper connections with others
2. Improved conflict resolution skills
3. Increased empathy and understanding
4. Healthy boundaries
Purpose and Meaning
1. Clearer sense of life purpose
2. Passion for serving others
3. Alignment with values and principles
4. Confidence in God’s guidance
Biblical Foundations
1. “Fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23)
2. “Put off the old self” (Ephesians 4:22-24)
3. “Be transformed” (Romans 12:2)
4. “Grow in the grace” (2 Peter 3:18)
Reflection Questions
1. What areas of spiritual growth do I need to focus on?
2. How do I cultivate a deeper connection with God?
3. What spiritual practices bring me joy?
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