There are many ways to approach learning and growing in Christian faith. Some involve intense study, some involve prayer and meditation, and some require acts of service. All these are good things, however the must not become THE thing. In looking back through my life I can see the many ways in which I have tried to deepen my faith and it has only recently come back to one clear idea. I am growing in a relationship with a living being. While that may not sound profound, I can see many ways in which I have lost sight of this.
Sometimes I would read my bible to uncover some hidden knowledge than I was trying to learn who God is. Sometimes I was trying to live a righteous life to maintain a standard rather than to reflect the image of Jesus. Sometimes I would look at my faith as my transformation tool. It is not surprising that we get distracted, misdirected, or lose sight of the real goal. The beautiful thing about Jesus is, he already knows us. He understands our weaknesses, our shortcomings, or bad motives. Even better, he loves us despite them. He holds out his hand to us inviting us back in. The God of the universe knows us, and desires that we come to know him. So the challenge is this, in all the things we do to grow and deepen our faith. We must understand that we are engaging in relationship with Jesus the risen Lord.
So as you look to grow in your faith, fix your eyes on Jesus. Look for him in everything you do, everything you study, and everywhere you go. Look to encounter the Living God.
Hebrew 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
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