December 30 | Philippians 1:6

“I am convinced of this: the one who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6)

We try to plan according to Bible principles. We leave time for devotions, prayer, and spiritual disciplines. We keep time for God to use us in our travels, give us divine appointments to speak to others about Him.

But do you leave time for God to do His good word in you? You think about how God ministries through you during your year, week, or day. But it also takes time for God to minister in you, to prepare you for those divine appointments and times when you are giving out.

As a disciple of Jesus you have two modes of growth. You need to be giving out to others, ministering and volunteering. But you also need to be taking in. You take in teaching, preaching, the ministry of other saints to you, and what God is speaking to you.

Without this vital step you will not grow quickly. Soon you will be running on empty. And you can’t give to others what you do not have. You need to be continually filling up to give out. You must grow beyond those you are helping to grow.

So don’t forget to take time to grow yourself first. And then set aside time to give out to others what you have learned and how you are growing. This is a plan for successful growth in God.

Action Step: Make a list of ways you need to grow and resources you see to help you get there. Find a way to implement these things in the coming year.

Lord Jesus, thank You for doing Your good work in me. Help me to leave time for growing in You and giving out what You teach me to others. Make me a blessing to others as You bless me this coming year.