Checklist for Growth

by Dr. Jeff Baxter
Author of Following Jesus into College and Beyond (Zondervan 2009)

Sometimes it is hard to measure whether we are growing in our relationships with God. If you are like me, sometimes I think I am taking a few steps back; and other hours, days, weeks, months or years, I think I am running forward. I understand, but it is still important to set some goals for growth in your faith maturing. As you are considering a Christian college or already have landed, here are a few benchmarks for your spiritual growth. Read this list, look up the verses, and take an honest assessment of how you are doing and how you can improve. Do not use this as a time to feel guilty, but to get after it in your relationship with God.

First, become a learner who is open and teachable to the things of God (Matt. 4:19, John 6:60-66).

Second, strive to put Christ first in all areas of life (Matt. 6:9-13, 24, 33; John 13:13). "Jesus said, 'If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me'" (Luke 9:23).

Third, commit to living a life of purity, separate from sin (1 Cor. 6:19-20; Eph. 4:22-32; Col. 3:5-10; 1 Thess. 4:3-7; Titus 2:12-14).

Fourth, have a daily devotional time and developing prayer life (Ps. 27:4, 42:1-2; Mark 1:35; Luke 11:1-4; 1 Thess. 5:17-18; James 1:5-7, 5:16).

Fifth, share the gospel of Jesus with others (Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; 5:42; Rom. 1:16).

Sixth, regularly attend a local church, being active in local worship and active in cooperate worship (Ps. 122:1, Acts 16:5, 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Col. 1:15-18; Heb. 10:25).

Seventh, demonstrate a servant's heart by helping others in practical ways (Mark 10:42-45; 2 Cor. 12:15; Phil. 2:25-30).

Eighth, honor God with your finances (Mal. 3:10-11; 1 Cor. 16:12-20; 2 Cor. 8-9).

Ninth, demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit by an attractive relationship with Jesus Christ and fellow people (John 15:1-5; Gal. 5).

Tenth, add your own item for spiritual growth to the list and verses to support it.

Keep this list near-by to help you see areas where growth can take place. Enjoy the journey with Jesus.