In this sermon, I break down what it truly means to grow spiritually, and I use everyday examples like trying to lose weight while eating Hot Cheetos to remind everyone that growth is intentional. No one becomes physically fit by sitting still, and spiritual maturity doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. God already chose us and provided a path for transformation, but we must take the steps to cultivate that growth daily through prayer, devotion, and community.
I share Acts 2:42 as a picture of the early church’s growth: they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. I explain that these same rhythms help us grow today. Teaching helps us understand who Jesus is. Fellowship forms Christlike relationships. Breaking bread builds community and hospitality. Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s presence and power. Spiritual growth is built on unity, coming together with intentionality.
I also walk through Jesus’ Parable of the Sower to show the hindrances that can block our growth. Some hearts are like the path: the Word never takes root and the enemy steals it quickly. Some are like rocky soil: they receive the Word with joy but fall away when life gets difficult. Others are like soil with thorns: they want God but allow worry, fear, and the pursuit of control or wealth to choke out their growth. And then there is good soil, the heart that receives the Word, understands it, trusts God, and produces lasting fruit.
Throughout the message, I challenge our youth to take spiritual inventory:
Which soil am I right now?
Am I the one who won’t even try?
The one who starts strong but quits when it gets hard?
The one who loves God but struggles to trust Him?
Or the one choosing to grow no matter the season?
Just like working out, growth happens in stages: 10 pounds, then 20, then 30. Some stop because it’s painful. Others push through, trust the process, and eventually grow stronger. Spiritually, the same is true: trust, perseverance, and intentional habits determine whether we stay stuck or mature into who God wants us to be.
I close by reminding them that life happens in seasons. Some seasons require perseverance; others allow for rest and renewal. But if we take growth seriously, stay connected to God and community, and trust Him through the process, we’ll be spiritually prepared for whatever comes next.
My Faith Journey 