May 3, 2024
Parents are met with a variety of challenges no matter the age or developmental stage of their child. First-time young parents may worry about feeding options and sleep schedules or grow anxious when their newborn shows signs of sickness or fever.
The concerns do not end when the child grows older and parents navigate the teenage years with prayers and sleepless nights. Even when the “child” has grown and moved out, the parent’s love and interest do not cease. We watch our children grow and mature with the prayer that they will love the Lord and serve Him no matter where they live or work. It has been said before that the days are long but the years are short. Each moment should be treasured.
How about our relationship with Christ? Is it growing, deepening and displaying more trust and stability as we grow older? The moment a person comes to faith in Christ and is born again is a moment like no other. However, we as a Church must commit ourselves to helping disciple, mentor and encourage young-in-the-faith believers. There are few joys I have as a pastor that compare with seeing members of the Church investing in and leading other Christians to be like Jesus.
Sometimes the Apostle Paul is mischaracterized by many in the Church. He can be presented oftentimes as cold, rigid and almost harsh. Let us agree on one thing: He was a man of deep passion. You can sense in the words he writes in these verses his deep love for those who were committed to the gospel.
He understood churches were not to compete with one another but rather celebrate with those that are growing and pleasing God. Paul emphasized it was all about pointing others to Christ, not seeking accolades.
When I read these verses, I am reminded of the season we are in and the common threat of tornadoes in our area. The meteorologist warns, “Hunker down!” and we know to get serious about our safety. With so many false doctrines and misinterpretations of Scripture making their way around our churches, we must stand firm on what matters most. How do we do that?
Make Jesus the main thing in all you do in your walk. Where the Scripture speaks on an issue, you speak. Where the Scripture is silent on an issue, you remain silent. Focus on the essential facts of the cross, resurrection and coming return of Jesus.
Paul’s one perpetual desire was for others to come to Jesus and for Christ to be glorified. Should that not be the same desire we have for ourselves and each other? Do not forget that we are on this journey and in this ministry together.
In the same way that we are grateful to see our children grow, let us be thankful for each other and help those around us to mature. It is a blessing to see a Christian grow, and it is a lot more fun than those 2 a.m. diaper changes!
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This lesson was written by Bobby McKay, pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi, and originally published by The Baptist Paper. This study is based on the Bible Studies for Life curriculum from Lifeway Christian Resources.
