Spiritual DisciplineSample

IN A YEAR

We usually remember or record the state of a place we have ever visited in our mind. The condition of that place seems to be imprinted in our mind, and therefore, we can recount it. However, our memory of that place may change when we return to that place one year later due to its many changes. Maybe the color of the house’s paint has changed. The yard of the house is getting narrower because of additional furniture. The trees are getting shady and taller. Many things can change in one year. Change and growth are natural processes that take place over time.

It was during the Passover celebration when Peter curled up in captivity between two guards—bound by iron chains. There was no special food during the Unleavened Bread Day. A year ago, Peter celebrated an unforgettable supper with Jesus. He certainly remembered the moment when Jesus washed his feet, as well as, how he promised that it would be better for him to die than deny Jesus. With shame, he must have also remembered how he had denied Jesus three times.

Peter was having a meal with the Lord after His resurrection on the shore of the Sea of Galilee when Jesus said, "Follow me!" Peter's test took place not long after the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. He was arrested and jailed. Maybe his life would end like his Lord. However, what happened to him was different. He was at peace knowing that he obeyed the Lord and that his life was in God's hands. He even slept soundly in the prison. Within one year, Peter experienced tremendous faith growth. He grew from an emotional disciple to a steadfast person.

The Lord also wants us to grow. Many people have been followers of God for a long time but still spiritually static. A healthy spiritual person will grow dynamically to be someone God wants him to be. 

Today’s devotional

1. How long have we been God’s followers? Do we experience growth? Is this growth still happening?

2. What has God changed in the process of our spiritual growth?

Today’s actions

Keep growing because spiritual growth does not recognize the word "old." It only recognizes the word "mature” which means that we still have the growth potential.