There are two things here: growing and training, developing and performing, flourishing and achieving.
“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit…till the day of his showing unto Israel.” “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.”
Luke 1:80; 2:40
Growth cannot be limited to spiritual only but can be extended to growth in stature, wisdom, grace, understanding, knowledge, skill, ability, performance, family…
Humankind classifies duty as spiritual-ecclesiastical, political-administrative, family-domestic, civil-professional/business. God did not do such categorization, so it is written, “Whatsoever thy hand finds to do, do it with thy might…” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Keep finding to do, do it with thy might; focus on finding to do, do it with thy might; concentrate on what you find to do, and do it with thy might.
Our focus here is how to establish a balance, and the hurdles to grapple with while maintaining a balance.
Foundation
Truth is always consistent with itself and needs nothing to help it stand. This is a virtue with which you must establish a permanent relationship. Be truthful to yourself! Never attempt to excuse your fault/failure or blame it on others. Be frank.
The Truth
All plants first grow downwards, then upwards. Deep roots keep plants steady and stout. In Proverbs 23:23, “Buy the truth, and sell it not; also, wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.” You have limited time at your disposal, therefore separate the chaff from the wheat, the most important from the less valuable, the waste from the worthy. Put a personal value on the truth, then never give it up for anything else while alive.
Purpose
Every well-built house starts with a definite purpose, plus a defined plan like a set goal, pursued with constancy. What is the value and worth of your life goals to you? Are your life goals compelling? Are they very high and demanding your best (sweat/perspiration) to accomplish? Let everything else be regulated according to them.
Example: I want to get to heaven at last, so whatever I think, say, or do, whatever I see, hear, or know, is subjected to that noble goal. Remember, “Buy the truth, and sell it not; also, wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.” Proverbs 23:23.
Prioritization
Put priority on all your goals: daily activities, immediate and long-term projects (goals). Priority retains energy, fervor, and revitalization. Strive steadily towards a desired end (achievement).
“I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so, fight I, not as one that beats the air.”
1 Corinthians 9:26
Running and fighting are rigorous/vigorous activities. You should not be aimless, goalless, or purposeless. List your goals in order of priority and allocate time to each according to its value to you. Be flexible but focused. Spiritual: devotion & usefulness, academic & career, marriage & family, possession & pleasure. Fill up each day with what, how & when. Never trifle even during past-time. Be all ears, all eyes, and all minds. Be swift to separate the chaff from the wheat. “Buy the truth, and sell it not; also, wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.” Proverbs 23:23.
Watch against procrastination and indulgence, distraction, and disturbance. These are human favorites but are very injurious to consistent success in life. Maintain friendships that add value to your life, that promote & encourage you. Good friends are like fertile soil that makes the seed of purpose grow to fruition.
Finally, sweat and perspire in the morning, at noon & the close of the day in the pursuit of your life goals, through deliberate, intentional, and consistent studying. Make studying your hobby, your past-time, and daily activity. It keeps your brain alert, and working, not sedentary. Regular exercise is also profitable, it helps your health and keeps you vibrant. Never eat the bread of idleness. Be proactive.
Personally, I have made God’s desires and purposes my ultimate pursuit, when it is convenient and when it is difficult. This is what determines my achievements and eternal reward. Remember God did not categorize some duties as spiritual, or secular.
Pst. Emmanuel Obe
YPF Patron
