But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:14
It’s been said, “The Bible is shallow enough for a child to wade in, yet deep enough for an elephant to swim.” This means that the message of salvation, the gospel, is simple enough for small children to comprehend. Still, in its entirety, the Bible is also so complex that even the world’s most renowned scholars cannot scratch the surface of knowing all there is to know.
Why? God’s way is infinitely more complex than we can truly fathom. Yet there are huge things He wants us to know as we grow. He wants all of us to be incurable learners, forever striving to deepen our understanding of His Word while at the same time putting our faith to practical use. In today’s verse, the author reprimands those whose spiritual growth was stunted by laziness and inactivity. This shows that spiritual maturity isn’t natural. It’s intentional, and it takes work.
Our relationship with Christ begins with an event – the moment we accept Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior – followed by a lifelong process of learning how to walk in obedience to God. It comes with the responsibility of stepping outside of our comfort zones to help others grow in this understanding. Every weekend, we can gather around the table and feast on God’s Word. This allows us to push away from the table refueled, refreshed, and ready to serve samples of the Savior to the lost and hungry. Are you prepared for that kind of diet and exercise?
Spend time reflecting on areas in which you lack spiritual discipline. It may be prayer, reading your Bible, or meditating on God’s plan for your life. Admit your lack of discipline in these areas to God, and then take action to get back on track. For example: set reminders on your phone or ask a trusted friend to hold you accountable. Spiritual discipline is intentional. So be intentional about being disciplined!
Heavenly Father, Thank You for providing me with the fuel of Your Word. Help me remain a steadfast learner as I seek Your wisdom to gain discernment. Reveal any areas of spiritual laziness and guide me to take the necessary steps to get back on track with Your will for my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.