Grow Up

In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow Up.

Matthew 5:48 MSG

Am I growing?

This is a good question to ask yourself.

Just like a flower growing up tall in the bright sunshine… in Jesus I grow too.

But are you?

Growing in Jesus looks like… change.

We all start in the same place… All have sinned… All fall short of God’s standard.

I have nowhere to go but up.

Up is… life reflecting more and more right choices in God’s eyes.

But do you know God’s standard… or the goal?

But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect (Matthew 5:48 NLT).

Is perfect possible?

Alone, no.

But consider this… Jesus is speaking …

In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow Up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you (Matthew 5:48 MSG).

So I will ask again… Is perfect possible?

With Jesus… yes.

If Jesus tells you to do something… He will help you do it.

You are not expected to be perfect on your own.

Look at what you have been given in Jesus…

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ (Ephesians 1:3 NLT).

Jesus gives you and me the spiritual blessing… the spiritual help needed to reach the goal… if we listen to Him.

 Listen.

Father, in the quiet of my heart, You speak and lovingly teach me Your standard, Your goal for me as Your child. Equipping me. I ask that You help me listen to Jesus as You guide me in where I need to grow up. Thank You for loving me right where I am. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Stacy A. Davis