The Christian life is one of perpetual growth.  Our perfection only awaits us in Glory as we are changed into the image and likeness of Jesus Christ.  While we live in the flesh, we must continually and consistently die to self and our sinful desires.  Consider these four areas in which we move forward in Christ:

1. Personal and Daily Devotions. Francis Chan contends, “We never grow closer to God when we just live life; it takes deliberate pursuit and attentiveness.”  You’ll never grow in grace unless you intentionally seek Him. 

2. Adversities. When a muscle is torn and ripped, it grows and becomes stronger.  The same is true of our faith.  The hardest groaning produces the hardiest growth.

3. Encouragement from Others. I can trace much of my spiritual development to those who encouraged me to keep going for Christ.  Never underestimate the power of the right words when they are seasoned with grace.4. Mistakes. Henry Ford said, “Failure is the opportunity to begin again, more intelligently.”  You may not sense that you are growing; you may even feel like you are going backwards from time to time, but remember:   genuine growth neither develops nor deteriorates overnight.