Breaking Spiritual Stagnation Series

BREAKING SPIRITUAL STAGNATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 6:1

Key Verse:  “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.” - Hebrews 6:1

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 4:18; Hosea 6:3; Philippians 3:12-14; 2 Peter 3:18; 1 Corinthians 15:58

INTRODUCTION

Spiritual stagnation is a condition where a believer remains at the same spiritual level for a prolonged period, showing little or no growth in faith, understanding, or spiritual effectiveness. It is possible to be busy in church activities yet stagnant in spiritual depth. God never designed the Christian life to be static; He ordained it to be progressive and ever-increasing.

The Christian journey is meant to move from glory to glory, strength to strength, and faith to faith. Whenever growth stops, decline begins. Stagnation weakens spiritual sensitivity, dulls hunger for God, and limits effectiveness in prayer, service, and witness.

Hebrews 6:1 is a divine call to advancement. God is urging His people to leave elementary spiritual levels and press into maturity. This message exposes the causes of stagnation and provides biblical keys for breaking into renewed spiritual momentum.

1. RECOGNISING THE SIGNS AND DANGERS OF SPIRITUAL STAGNATION

Spiritual stagnation often develops subtly, but its effects are destructive if not confronted early. Recognising the signs is the first step toward restoration and growth.

a) Loss of spiritual hunger – When prayer, the Word, and fellowship no longer excite you, it reveals a decline in spiritual appetite that must be addressed urgently (Psalm 42:1).

b) Repetition without revelation – Doing the same spiritual routines without fresh insight leads to dryness and frustration (Matthew 15:8).

c) Reduced sensitivity to sin and conviction – Stagnation weakens the conscience, making compromise easier and repentance delayed (Ephesians 4:19).

d) Declining spiritual effectiveness – A stagnant believer struggles to bear fruit, win souls, or operate confidently in spiritual authority (John 15:4-6).

Biblical Example: Israel wandered for forty years in the wilderness not because the journey was long, but because disobedience and unbelief kept them stagnant (Numbers 14:33-34).

2. ROOT CAUSES OF SPIRITUAL STAGNATION

Spiritual stagnation does not happen suddenly; it is often the result of neglected spiritual disciplines and wrong priorities.

a) Contentment with past encounters – Relying on yesterday’s experiences without seeking fresh encounters with God leads to spiritual dryness (Exodus 16:20).

b) Lack of spiritual discipline – Irregular prayer, shallow study of the Word, and inconsistent devotion weaken spiritual growth (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

c) Disobedience to revealed truth – Growth stops when believers hear God’s Word but fail to act on it consistently (James 1:22).

d) Spiritual complacency – Comfort zones in faith prevent believers from pressing into deeper levels of commitment and maturity (Revelation 3:15-16).

Biblical Example: King Saul began well but stagnated spiritually due to partial obedience and fear of people, eventually losing divine direction and favour (1 Samuel 15:22-23).

3. GOD’S CALL TO PRESS FORWARD INTO SPIRITUAL MATURITY

God continually calls His people to grow, advance, and deepen their walk with Him. Spiritual maturity is both a command and a responsibility.

a) Growth is God’s expectation – God expects believers to mature beyond spiritual infancy into stability and discernment (Hebrews 5:12-14).

b) Spiritual progress is intentional – Growth requires deliberate effort, discipline, and commitment to spiritual practices (Philippians 3:13-14).

c) The Word fuels advancement – Consistent engagement with God’s Word renews the mind and stimulates spiritual growth (Colossians 3:16).

d) Fellowship sharpens maturity – Walking with spiritually minded believers strengthens accountability and growth (Proverbs 27:17).

Biblical Example: Apostle Paul continually pressed forward spiritually despite his deep revelations, demonstrating that no believer ever outgrows the need for growth (Philippians 3:12).

4. PRACTICAL KEYS TO BREAKING SPIRITUAL STAGNATION

Breaking stagnation requires intentional alignment with God’s principles and responsiveness to the Holy Spirit.

a) Rekindle your passion for God – Returning to heartfelt prayer and worship restores intimacy and spiritual fire (Revelation 2:4-5).

b) Commit to consistent spiritual disciplines – Daily prayer, fasting, and study of the Word revive spiritual momentum (Daniel 6:10).

c) Walk in prompt obedience – Immediate obedience unlocks new dimensions of spiritual authority and growth (John 14:21).

d) Serve actively in God’s kingdom – Service creates spiritual movement and prevents stagnation (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Biblical Example: David strengthened himself in the Lord during moments of discouragement and stagnation, and God renewed his direction and victory (1 Samuel 30:6-8).

CONCLUSION

Spiritual stagnation is not God’s will for any believer. The Christian life is designed for continuous growth, increasing light, and expanding spiritual capacity. Remaining at the same level for too long limits destiny and effectiveness in God’s kingdom.

As you respond to God’s call to move forward, renew your disciplines, and obey His Word, you will break free from stagnation and enter a season of renewed spiritual vitality, maturity, and fruitfulness.