Growing Up—Part 2

Yesterday we began a list of ten areas in which Scripture says we should be growing. In today’s devotional, I want to complete that list for you.

1. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 and 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 teach us that we should grow in our love for others. I would hate to think that I have plumbed the depths of love for my wife, for my children, for my friends, or for God.

v 12 And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows.

v 9 But we don’t need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. 10 Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.


2. Ephesians 2:21 speaks to us of growing in unity. You and I ought to grow better and better at getting along with other believers, especially those in our church.

v 21 We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.

3. Luke 2:52 speaks of growing in wisdom. God is so anxious to provide you and me with His wisdom, but it is something we need to seek. Are you growing in wisdom?

v 52 Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.

4. Luke 2:52 also speaks of growing in favor. Are you obnoxious and hard to get along with? Do you find it difficult to get along with others? I challenge you, if that is true, to consider the model of Jesus for our lives. He grew in favor with both God and men.


5. 2 Peter 3:18 says that we can grow in grace. I don’t know about you, but I am deeply grateful for God’s grace in my life. And for those who extend me grace when I blow it. Is grace a hallmark of your life?

18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.


According to Scripture, these ten areas—the five from yesterday and the five today—are vital areas in which you and I are to grow. I challenge you to read each Scripture and take each area before the Lord and ask Him to reveal where you need to grow.

You will be amazed at the change for good that will come about in your life!