Grow with the word
Reverend Carmichael Springer, Pastor of the Chalky Mount Wesleyan Holiness Church, has urged Christians to focus on the bible and grow, as it is expected by God.
Speaking during the virtual Sunday morning service of the church yesterday, Rev Springer explained that the Holy Spirit dwelled in every believer and brought joy into the life of a Christian. He contended that because of that fact, there should be happiness and rejoicing in the Lord.
“Encourage to rejoice always in the Lord, in His love, righteousness, intercession, providence, grace and that your name is written in heaven,” said Springer.
However, referencing 2 Peter 3:18, the pastor pointed out that more was expected of believers than just rejoicing. Consistent growth by reading the bible was an important step in the life of a believer.
"Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. So God has provided his word as our spiritual nourishment,” said Springer.
Expanding by quoting 1 Peter 2:2 where the Bible states that, “As new-born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word that you may grow thereby.” Springer contended that God provided the scriptures that believers would grow.
“Just as the baby desires milk, we as Christians should have that same hunger for and thirst for the word of God. So that we may grow in grace, love, knowledge, patience, humility and faith,” explained Springer.
The pastor asked those listening to pay attention to the word sincere in the scripture and explained that it meant pure and true. He also said that the word was necessary for believers to grow as it was what sustained and guided each person.
“This is what determines what we believe and how we behave. This is what will determine our actions, this is what will determine our behaviour. The word will determine how we treat each other, how we dress, our work ethics, how we eat and how we drink,” said Pastor Springer.
The reverend explained that believers should not be guided by tradition, the thoughts or opinions of others but on the Bible. Springer highlighted that the scripture described the word as being sweeter than honey and as such it was exactly what was needed during hard or troubling times.
“When we are fearful, go to the word. When we are lonely, when we are depressed, there is something in the word for us. When we are disappointed or we receive bad news there is something in the word to cheer us up,” encouraged Springer. (AS)