Take Time to Grow
Everything that has life must grow. From a seed to a tree, a baby to an adult, growth is natural—and necessary. But growth doesn’t just happen; it must be intentional. Here are some powerful truths to help you take time to grow:
1. Growth is a Sign of Life
Biologically, living organisms grow through cell development and adaptation. Without growth, life ceases. In the same way, if we’re not growing spiritually, mentally, or emotionally, something inside us is fading. Jesus Himself “grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). Growth was a process, even for the Son of God.
2. Learn from the Mistakes of Others
Mature people learn from the mistakes of others. Observational learning shows we develop faster by watching others succeed or fail. Fools are famous for repeating their errors (Proverbs 26:11 MSG). When we are stuck in a rut, we can ask for God’s help to get out. We are not supposed to do life alone. The Holy Spirit is our Helper (John 14:26).
3. The Right Relationships Open Doors
According to Harvard research, strong social networks improve not only success but also mental well-being. Who you walk with influences where you go. God did not create us to be our own island. We are created for community. Even God is a community (Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit). We are better together. Mentors, teachers, and friends help you grow and go further.
4. In Order to Grow, You Have to Go
You cannot stay in your comfort zone and expect change. Growth requires stretching. Just like muscles grow under tension, we grow through challenges. It’s through “going”—trying, failing, and adjusting—that we develop character and capacity. Have you ever considered two thirds of God’s name is “GO!” A prophet is taken for granted in his hometown and his family (Matthew 13:58).
5. Growth Takes Time
According to neuroscience, brain development continues into the mid-20s. So be patient with your young people. And if you are like me, I never want to grow up. I want to stay curious, inquisitive, probing, developing to become a new “me” every day. Jesus taught us to be child-like (not childish). When we live with a growth mindset, we explore a whole new world. So let us not be a know-it-all. Be patient with your own progress. Take time daily to read, reflect, and take steps grow.
If you do this your life will be filled with purpose, joy, excitement, and enthusiasm. You will become a magnet for others because you will become a person of value and you will have something to offer to the world. You will increase your influence and live an inspiring and impactful life. Let us go, so we can grow!