Keep Growing!
By Art Dmytriyev
Yancey County
Jesus Christ said: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.” (John 12:24 KJV). What does it exactly mean? The answer is at the foot of the Cross.
By His death on the Cross Jesus triumphed over the forces of evil. He who subjugated the demonic spirits during His earthly ministry has broken their power and made certain their ultimate doom. Jesus’ victory gives us victory over the evil forces that still seek to control us, as we walk with Him in peace, joy, and assurance of His love. Now the Holy Spirit dwells within us and empowers us. Continually committed to Jesus as our Savior and Lord, we are set free from the burden of our past deeds. We no longer live in the darkness, fear of evil powers, ignorance, and meaninglessness of our former way of life. In this new freedom in Jesus, we are called to grow into the likeness of His character, communing with Him daily in prayer, feeding on His Word, meditating on it and His providence, singing His praises, gathering together for worship, and participating in the mission of the Church. We are also called to follow Christ’s example by compassionately ministering to the physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of humanity. As we give ourselves in loving service to those around us and in witnessing His salvation, His constant presence with us through the Spirit transforms every moment and every task into a spiritual experience. The Word of God speaks: “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him”. (Colossians 2:6 KJV).
Walking with Jesus is growing in Jesus. As He described the principles of His Kingdom: “So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.” (Mark 4:26–29 KJV). The whole process permeates our intentions, our priorities, and our actions. So, we pray, learn, test, try, observe, and reflect – we grow in faith.
When Jesus was on earth, He did not spend His time chasing after the things “of the world,” such as striving for wealth, popularity, or success. He spent His time on others, feeding them when they were hungry, healing them when they were sick, and comforting them when they were hurting. That is how Jesus offered Himself for others, and it is the example we ought to follow. We definitely can strengthen our relationship with Christ via fellowship with other believers. When other people meet us and see the so-called Christianity Fruits of the Spirit, they will be able to see God’s character and better understand what He is like. He is the One Who has the power to change people’s hearts. By choosing daily to commune with Jesus, by putting our faith into action, and by sharing in fellowship with other believers, we can keep our connection to God strong, continually growing in His love.
Finally, Spiritual growth, led by the Holy Spirit, knows no limits! Developing our relationship with Jesus Christ is a continual process including every area of our lives. So, this is our privilege of living a life touched by the Creator of the universe and sharing His love with others. The closer we become to Him, the more of a blessing we will be.
Dear Reader, this short message may sound like a challenge and a bit overwhelming but do not be discouraged. Remember the words of Jesus that “with God all things are possible”! (Matthew 19:26 KJV). So, keep growing, and may the Lord Bless You! Amen
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Pastor Art Dmytriyev is originally from Siberia. He has traveled the world in Evangelism and pastoral ministry. He serves as a pastor in North Carolina, holds a Master of Divinity degree, and is currently a Doctor of Ministry candidate. More information at: https://burnsvillenc.adventistchurch.org/pastors-blog
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