2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Growth is constant. Everything that lives grows. When growth is stunted, it is proof that death prevails. Growth is known with life, and life is known with growth also. One of the major reasons why people stop growing is that they lack the desire to engage the elements that make for growth. Now, growth is not a cause; it is an effect. Our opening Scripture tells us that as newborn babes, there must be a desire for the sincere milk of the Word for growth to happen. Here, we are told that growth happens by the Word. It puts it this way: desire the sincere milk of the Word that you may grow thereby. The Word “thereby” here speaks of “by it”, or “because of it”, which means that when we desire the sincere milk of the Word, and feed on it, we grow because of that. Therefore, growth is a result of feeding upon the Word of God and doing it. So, growth is an effect, not a cause. Did you get that? Hence, if you are not growing in the things of God, the enemy is not responsible. You are responsible. The enemy doesn’t feed you with the Word, you do eat the Word for yourself, and by yourself. God has made the Word available to us in the Bible and in Church – your local assembly where you fellowship. That’s God’s order. Therefore, you must be desirous to hear the Word, receive and believe it, and do it. That’s what makes for growth. Hallelujah!!!
2 Peter 3:18 tells us, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ…” The Lord wants us to grow in grace, and this growth is a result of a strong desire for the Word of God. As we grow in grace, we are enabled to enter the fulfillment of all that God has prepared for us. This is how to enjoy the fullness of our inheritance in Christ. If there are things you’re struggling and grappling with at this level of spiritual maturity, that’s a pointer to the need to grow up. There are certain challenges in life that are overcome because of growth. You must have a strong desire to mortify the deeds of the flesh in your life and to put on Christ in all ramifications. Never condone or make room for carnality; don’t explain it away. Deal with it and shed that load by meditating and practicing the Word. Don’t condemn yourself while growing unto maturity, but don’t excuse yourself from the responsibility of growth. Take responsibility for your own spiritual development.
My Solid Front (Confession): My longing and hunger is to grow and be established in the faith, giving all diligence to make full proof of my calling and election in Christ Jesus. I give myself to feeding on the Word voraciously and remain aglow in the spirit through consistent fellowship with God. Amen.
Further Meditation: Ephesians 4:15, Hebrews 5:12-14.