Introduction

Good morning, everyone.

I want to start today's service by sharing a quote from Rick Warren. He said, “Becoming like Christ is a long, slow process of growth.” Growth is what we’re going to be talking about today.

Our sermon today is based on Psalms 92:12-13, which reads,

"The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God."

This scripture passage sets the tone for our discussion on the benefits of intentional growth, the necessity of engagement, and the rewards of preparation.

Let's open today's service with a prayer.

Dear Lord, we humbly come before you today, asking for your guidance as we delve into your word. Grant us the wisdom to understand and embrace your teachings. Help us to grow intentionally, engage fully in our faith, and prepare ourselves for the rewards that come from a life lived in your glory. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Now, let's dive in.

The Benefits of Intentional Growth

Intentional growth, as the term suggests, is the deliberate and conscious effort to develop and improve oneself. In the context of our spiritual lives, it refers to the purposeful pursuit of spiritual maturity and a deeper understanding of God's word and His will for us. The benefits of such intentional growth are manifold and transformative.

Strengthens our faith: When we make a conscious effort to grow in our understanding of God's word, we develop a deeper and more profound faith. We begin to see God's hand in everything around us and recognize His presence in our lives more clearly. This strengthened faith serves as an anchor in times of trials and tribulations, providing us with the resilience to weather life's storms.

Brings a sense of purpose: As we grow in our faith, we begin to understand God's plan for us better. We recognize our unique gifts and talents and how we can use them to serve God and others. This understanding gives our lives a sense of purpose and direction, making our daily lives more meaningful and fulfilling.

Enhances our relationship with God: As we delve deeper into God's word and seek to understand His teachings better, we develop a closer relationship with Him. We begin to see Him not just as a distant deity but as a loving Father who is intimately involved in our lives. This closeness with God brings a sense of peace and contentment that is beyond understanding.

Equips us to serve others better: As we grow in our faith and understanding of God's word, we are better equipped to serve others. We can share God's love more effectively and be a source of comfort and encouragement to those around us. This not only enriches our lives but also makes a positive impact on the lives of those we interact with.

Prepares us for eternity: Our time on earth is temporary, but our spiritual growth has eternal implications. As we grow in our faith and deepen our relationship with God, we prepare ourselves for eternity with Him. This eternal perspective gives us hope and courage to face the challenges of life.

The Necessity of Engagement

It’s not enough to merely believe; we must also actively engage with our faith ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO