- Philippians 1:5–7 - for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace.
- Ephesians 2:8–10 - For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
- Galatians 2:20 - I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
Every believer's path is unique. However, there are certain stages of spiritual growth that God desires to accomplish in the lives of His children.
• The Lord teaches new believers the basics of life by faith. He does this through His Word, other believers, and life circumstances.
• God gives us the opportunity to serve Him. We are saved by grace through faith, and good works are the fruit of the new life we have in Christ.
• The Lord shows us how dependent we are on Him. We realize that we cannot bear true spiritual fruit by our own strength and that we need His guidance and power.
• God reveals things that hinder our freedom. As we trust Him and renew our minds with His truth, He sets us free from the things that keep us in bondage.
• The Lord teaches us to live the new life we already have in Christ. We are not trying to earn God's acceptance; rather, we live by relying on His grace and allow the life of Christ to be manifested in us.
As you reflect on these stages, you can see how God is working in your life today. He is patient and faithful. God, who began a good work in you, will carry it on to completion.
Reflection
At what stage of your spiritual journey do you think you are currently, and what is God trying to change in your character at this stage?