16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (HCSB)
Have you heard the quote, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink”? Actually You can. If you put a little salt in his oats, he will eventually head to the water tank. I’m not a theological genius but I believe you can encourage people to grow spiritually.
Participation in regular Bible study – In study after study, maturing believer’s credit regular attendance in a weekly bible study as one of the key factors for personal spiritual growth. This actually makes sense. Accountability is one of the key environments needed to keep people focused on God’s Word and His mission. Encourage those you lead to commit to attend more often. If they attend Bible study twice a month, encourage them to make it 3 times a month. You get the point. People need to know that just showing up every week helps. (NOTE: It helps even more if they attend Worship as well).
Accountability Group – This is one of the strongest indicators of maturing believers but also one of the least used methods in study after study. This requires a high degree of accountability and trust. Many people struggle to “go deep” because the cost of trusting someone else is so high. Vulnerability is a significant sign of maturity. A group of 3 to 4 people of the same sex meeting regularly for the purpose of bible study and accountability can significantly increase you spiritual attitude and aptitude. Choose wisely. Consider longer term friends instead of someone you just met.
Read Your Bible everyday – This was identified as the number one attribute of a growing believer in study after study. Nothing takes the place of the individual spending quality time alone with God and His word. Whether it’s 15 minutes or an hour; this one thing alone over time equips you to face life’s trials and deepens your faith and trust in God. Read God’s word daily. Pray daily. Meditate on God’s word (read it slowly and over and over again for comprehension). Just take the time to BE with God.
