Years ago, I dabbled in tennis.  I liked the game but didn’t play much.  Then I married a tennis queen.  Kristi played, and she played really well.  Naturally, both of our kids started playing as young children.

In those early years, it was fun to play with them.  We spent most of the time chasing balls that were hit anywhere but where they were supposed to go.  However, as the years progressed, playing with them was not as much fun.  They both became tennis beasts, and I could not keep up with them.

Watching them get better and better was wonderful for a dad even if I could not play at their level.

When you decide to take up something (a job, hobby, sport, whatever), it is amazing to recognize the way you learn and improve with time and repetition.  It’s also interesting to think back and recognize decisions that you would not make today – decisions that set you back.  You learned.  You grew.  You moved forward.

That’s how the Christian life also works.

When you become a Christian, everything changes.  You have a new heart and a new purpose.  The Holy Spirit comes to guide and help you.  But He isn’t going to force you.

Our direction/focus needs to match up with what Peter wrote in 1 Peter 1:13-16: “Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at His coming.  As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.  But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

To live up to that, you must have God’s help.  It is impossible to do on your own.  So, we must give Him control – daily.  We must study and know His Word.  We must spend time with Him.  We must let Jesus truly be Lord.

The tennis skills will not come just because you want them to come.  You must strengthen them.

The business skills will not come just because you want them to come.  You must strengthen them.

The skills we do in any area must be strengthened, and so must our faith skills.  Let God lead.  Let Him guide.  Let Him call the shots.  You’ll look back and wish you had started sooner.

Consider using Jerry Bridges’ insight in your growth journey. Click the picture below to find out more…