By Minister Litney Gray
Growth in stature, growth as a sign of maturity and growth in productivity often brings an inner excitement. I recall my middle school years as a basketball player. For some reason, I thought most athletes wore knee braces and elbow sleeves as athletic fashion or as a result of serious injuries, but soon learned its benefit of support. After a few days of coming home with aching knees, I decided to tell my mom what I experienced. She took me to our family doctor for an examination. Within a few minutes of the exam and questions, he shared with simplicity, “you’re growing.” He explained I was experiencing a growth spurt. I kept asking questions looking for a better explanation to the discomfort in my knees, but simply put I was growing and a simple knee brace was the solution to help me through the transition. Now as a young, single adult, I am experiencing similar “growing pains.” Balancing life, career, ministry, family, friends, community and the list goes on. It hurts at times to think that I am not keeping up or doing enough, but I thank God for the wisdom He calms my spirit with that it’s just “growing pains”. Instead of a knee brace, God’s grace is the solution.
2 Peter 3:18 reads, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen”
As much as I strive for perfection -better yet excellence, in this season of my life, I am learning the benefit of God’s grace. Like knee braces holding up my growing bones so I could keep playing basketball games, God’s grace is that support that holds the good work of growth that is occurring in me holistically -spiritually, physically and soulically. I want to keep growing in G.R.A.C.E:
God
Right relationships
Acceptable actions
Courageous character
Expectation of eternal life
I want God. I need God. I desire Him first and trust He will help me to prioritize my relationships, help me keep the right attitude, and put things in proper perspective. It hurts when the pain feels like injury rather than growth and maturity. But thank God for grace!
Dear LORD,
Thank you for being with me through life’s growing pains. You love me so much that you’ve provided me with the support I need to continue to grow in relationship with You and knowledge of who You are. I appreciate the unmerited favor and loving kindness you have bestowed upon me. Father, let me ever be reminded to look to You especially in seasons of growth and transition. In the name of Jesus. Amen.