Peter instructs his readers, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 2:18a)

Grow! I heard a preacher say, “if we are not growing, we are dying.” We are good at growing in our knowledge. Many Christians can quote a lot of Bible and give lists of people, places, commands, and more. But are we growing in knowing Christ? Are we growing in Grace?

Are we growing?

Are we growing downward? Are we sending roots down into the foundation of Jesus Christ? Is our faith strong so that we will not be swayed by every changing wind of teaching? (Eph 4:14)

Are we growing upward? Paul tells Christians in a number of passages to focus on the things of God. Colossians 3:1-2 is one such passage, “If then you have been raised with Christ, see the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

Are we growing inward? Work on you heart and on your mind. This should happen as we grow deeper roots and as we focus on the things of God. Cf. Rom 12:2

Are we growing outward? Are we reaching and teaching others? Do you and I extend grace to those around us?

-Scott