Let’s say you wanted to plant a garden. Whether you’re growing flowers, vegetables, or a fruit tree, you’ll need the same basic ingredients—nutrients, time, and the right atmosphere. It’s the exact same with your faith, too! You need nutrients (the right fuel in the right amounts with the right frequency), time (growth requires persistence and patience), and the right atmosphere (one that is nurturing and promotes life).
- This is more than meat and potatoes. You need the Word of God as your daily fuel, along with daily prayer and meditation.
- Read your Bible daily, either in book form, through a Bible app, or an online resource.
- Make time to pray throughout the day. Just as important—listen!
- Meditate (active rest). Allow yourself at least 5-10 minutes of quiet time each morning. You can do this before or after prayer or at any other time. Sit in silence, take several deep, cleansing breaths, and invite God into the room and into your thoughts. Then be still with Him.
- If you only read your Bible once or twice a year, do you think you’d grow very much in your faith? Probably not. You need daily stimulation and knowledge in order to learn and stay motivated.
- If you planted an orange tree in the Alaskan wilderness, even if you dug past the permafrost and watered it every day, would it grow? Of course not. It’s the wrong atmosphere. Create your ideal atmosphere to encourage growth:
- Silence or music? Find a quiet place or put on some light music to help you relax and shift into the right mindset. Turn off your phone too.
- Lighting Office lights aren’t the same as sunlight so get outside when you can or create a space with softer, whiter light. Not only is it easier on your eyes, you’ll be able to focus for longer periods of time.
- Get comfortable! Do you have an inviting chair or couch in your office or building? Grab a coffee and settle down with your Bible for ten minutes. The more comfortable you are, the longer you’ll be inclined to stay there.
- Add a Join a men’s group with other pastors or like-minded individuals from your community. Regardless of your position in the church, you need a space all your own where you’re on equal footing with others to share experiences, ask questions, and learn from others.
No matter how much you study the Bible and pray, you can always keep growing! There’s always more to learn, a deeper level to attain, and new experiences to encounter. Faith is more than a belief; it’s a journey that requires your participation.
