Rooted and Growing

Are we growing deeper, or just getting older?

That’s a question worth slowing down to consider. We can spend years attending church, listening to messages, and learning Scripture while still holding on to attitudes and habits that haven’t changed very much.

God’s purpose is that we become more like the Jesus we believe in.

Paul describes the heart behind his ministry: “Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.” - Colossians 1:28 (ESV)

Paul wanted people to know Jesus and keep growing in Him. Spiritual maturity means our lives are increasingly shaped by His character, His truth, and His purposes. That growth shows up in everyday places. How do we respond when someone disappoints us? Are we willing to forgive? Can we receive correction without immediately defending ourselves? Does what we read in God’s Word change how we treat the people around us?

These are places where our roots can grow deeper. Sometimes the Lord brings something to our attention through Scripture. Sometimes He uses someone who loves us enough to speak honestly. Those moments can be uncomfortable, but they can also become opportunities for growth—if we’re willing to listen and respond.

The measure of spiritual maturity isn’t simply how much Scripture we know, but how much of that Scripture is shaping the way we live.

And as we grow, our concern for others grows too. Paul was willing to endure hardship because he cared deeply about the church. He wanted believers to remain faithful and become strong in Christ. His love was willing to sacrifice.

We have the same opportunities. Helping someone grow may require giving our time, listening when we’re tired, praying faithfully, or having a conversation we would rather avoid. As Jesus shapes our hearts, we become more willing to make room for someone else.

But we don’t have to do this through willpower alone. Paul writes:

“For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.” - Colossians 1:29 (ESV)

Paul worked faithfully, and he depended on God’s power. We need that same dependence. We can ask the Holy Spirit to help us obey when it’s difficult, soften our hearts when we resist correction, and strengthen us to love when we feel weary.

And we need one another. Paul wanted believers’ hearts to be encouraged and “knit together in love.” God never intended spiritual maturity to be a solo journey. You need me. I need you. We need people who encourage us, challenge us, and help us keep our eyes on Jesus.

A deeply rooted life never stops growing.

Love & Blessings,

Pastor Tim