“We so often view a man’s character as if he has always been good when, in fact, his becoming good was a struggle.” I am not sure where I picked this up but it bears examination: ‘In writing the life of any eminent man, we should not begin when his character was fully developed and recognized.
On the contrary, we should study the growth of his being--seek for the bud which concealed the seed, and the powers which conspired to unfold it.” It is said of Jesus “…yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered…” We do not always understand the allotments of Divine Providence, but if we believe what the Bible says, we understand that they are often for our learning and our growth.” (Dee Bowman) Personal growth is not easy. It is something for which we must work. Bowman was right, it is indeed a struggle. It takes great effort to become what we can and need to be.
Consider these steps to help you in your personal growth. I believe they will help you.
Choose a Life of Growth. George Eliot said, “The strongest principle of growth lies in human choice.” I must decide I really want to grow. When I make that choice, I am simply doing what God wants me to do. Paul wrote, “But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head-Christ” (Ephesians 4:15). God both desires and expects us to grow. But growth does not come by accident, it is a choice.To accomplish that goal, I must be a teachable person. John Wooden, who lead UCLA to a record number of basketball championships once said, “It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.” We keep learning by reading the Bible, taking advantage of classes, seminars, listening to tapes, attending outside functions in our area of need and interest, and reading material.
Never stay satisfied with current accomplishments. The whole concept of growth means to increase, to develop, to move on. In the early church it says, “But the word of God grew and multiplied” (Acts 12:24). That means there were results, there was growth. Rick Warren said, “The greatest enemy of tomorrow’s success is today's success.” If we are to rise to our God-given potential, we must not be satisfied with yesterdays growth .
Focus on Self Development, not self fulfillment. Self fulfillment is feeling good, finding happiness, or “finding yourself.” Self development is much more. It has to do with discovering your purpose, developing your potential and daring to pursue your destiny. Happiness is the by product of a person seeking self development.
Find a way to apply what you have learned. Jesus said, "Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them (Jn. 13:17). Yes, faith without works is dead! As Jim Rohn put it, "Don't let your learning lead to knowledge. Let your learning lead to action.
Yes, growth is a struggle. The end result of
the character of a Christian is not always evident to the world. But you and I know what it really takes to grow!
--- Ken Weliever (modified-jb)