Today's reading

…Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you. –Matthew 5:48 MSG

December 26, 2023

Growing Up in Christ

…Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you. –Matthew 5:48 MSG

Do you remember the old Toys “R” Us jingle, “I don’t wanna grow up. I’m a Toys R Us kid…”? As nice as this jingle is, there comes a time when you must grow up and move forward in life.

This holds true in your spiritual life as well. Upon receiving Christ, you become God’s child. However, your new life in Christ does not stop at the point of salvation. As a member of God’s family, He desires that you mature in godly attributes and behaviors. 

As you grow up in Christ, you’ll increase in wisdom and make fewer mistakes. Your life will become more joyful as you live according to God’s ways—not your ways. And you’ll be filled with more of God’s power to overcome troubles. You will freely share the gifts and talents God’s Spirit has placed within you rather than keeping them to yourself. In addition, you’ll come to recognize, appreciate, and accept God’s transformation taking place. 

Although you grow up in Christ, you have the assurance that you will always remain God’s child. He will faithfully be by your side to help, guide, and protect you.

prayer focuses

Pray that God would reveal to you one area where you need to grow and become more Christ-like.

Ask the Holy Spirit to bless you with a childlike heart that is wise in the things of God but one that still knows how to have fun.

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about the

Author

Barbara Alpert

Barbara was a wife, mother, and grandma who sought to love the LORD with all her heart, soul & strength. She has authored several books for adults and children. She has enjoyed mentoring other writers and seeing them turn their manuscripts into published masterpieces for God's glory. She believed that every person has a God-story within them to be told and shared. Barbara passed away peacefully in November 2023, but Bayside continues to remember and honor her legacy by sharing devotionals written by her in order to inspire and encourage others.