Setting Spiritual Goals

Genesis 11:9

Introduction

1.      I enjoy working with numbers; I keep meticulous records, some important and others not so important

2.      Numbers often provide me with self motivation

3.      In the end, self motivation is the only kind that works

4.      At the end of the year, businesses take inventory – Christians ought to take a spiritual inventory as well  

Discussion

1.      First, there must be a desire for spiritual growth – 2 Pet 3:18

a.       To grow spiritually is to follow Jesus – Lk 2:52; 1 Sam 2:26  

b.      To grow spiritually is to have a yearning, in one’s heart, to be close to God, to be like God – 1 Peter 1:13-16  

c.       To grow spiritually is to forget oneself in one’s striving to love God and love others – Matt 22:37-39  

2.      Second, there must be an understanding of what constitutes spiritual growth

a.       Going to church every Sunday, or even more often, is not spiritual growth  

b.      Buying a new Bible is not spiritual growth  

c.       Spiritual growth comes from following the spirit instead of the flesh (see, for example, Gal 5:16-26)  

d.      Spiritual growth comes from adding to one’s faith (see, for example, 2 Peter 1:3-11)  

3.      Third, there must be a plan for spiritual growth

a.       The plan will focus on those things that one needs to change  

b.      For example, a person with patience probably does not need more patience, but may need compassion  

c.       The plan must set aside time for reading, study and meditation upon God’s word  

4.      Fourth, there must be an implementation of that plan; there must be action

a.       James 4:13-17  

b.      It is fine to “wait for the Lord,” but not when there is something that needs to be done  

c.       Lincoln’s problems with generals during the Civil War – “He’s got the slows”  

Conclusion

1.       God has called us together in Torrington for a reason – to be a light in this world

2.      The light will shine more brightly as each of us becomes the person God wants us to be

3.      We challenge you to “grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus” so that you will contribute to that light