The evidence of progress

"Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all." 1 Timothy 4:15 (NKJV)

I was sitting on the fourth pew of a small Rio de Janeiro church waiting for service to start. Our row was almost full as I was squeezed between my cousin and older sister. Two acquaintances joined us. One of them started talking to my cousin. I smiled at her. She said, “that girl sure looks like Cintia.”” I replied: “That's me!” She was surprised as she said, "I did not recognize you! You have lost so much weight!"

All of the effort I put into losing weight was bearing fruit. It was evident that I was making progress because visually, I was a different person.

This morning I want to encourage you to keep making progress in your spiritual journey. Much like in my health journey, there is evidence to be seen and enjoyed by those around you when you choose not to complain.

In today's Bible passage Paul is encouraging Timothy to be an example in word, conduct, love, in spirit, faith, and purity. He goes on to say "Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all." 1 Timothy 4:15

 

I believe that when my spiritual progress is evident to all, my words and my conduct will be an expression of that progress. Timothy was a leader and as a mother, I am leading my children.

I believe that my home is the first and main place where the benefits of my spiritual progress can be experienced and enjoyed. To put it plainly, home folk will be the first ones to notice your transformation.

This passage taught me that Biblical meditation and total dedication precede progress. I was almost unrecognizable to my peers because of a lengthy process and dedication to a plan. Think about your spiritual journey. Can those around you see a difference in you? Do you have a growth plan and a process?

In order to be an example in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity, it is necessary to be dedicated to God's way of doing things. God's way is our process. It includes Bible reading and other spiritual disciplines.

This kind of spiritual progress will bring glory to God and will help our families first. I am certain that my family can benefit from encouraging words. I know they can benefit from my peaceful, kind conduct. What about your family?

God is glorified when His children resemble Him in every way. Let's strive to look like God in our speech.

This kind of progress is not about selfish purposes but is about embracing Godly character and conduct. 

Have you ever given yourself entirely to a process and found success at the end? How can this approach help you in your spiritual journey?

Prayer: Lord, I want to change. But you will have to change me. I submit to your process. Help me to give myself entirely to you through Prayer, Bible reading, studying, and other Godly practices. I pray that these changes will glorify you and bless those closest to me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.