When I played football in high school I wanted to gain weight. As a skinny kid I needed more heft to compete. So I ate all I could—peanut butter, quarter-pounders, ice cream. Nothing seemed to pack on the pounds. Years later I discovered the secret to gaining weight—age. Now I breath in the scent of a milkshake and gain a couple pounds. As they say, youth is wasted on the young.

Similar to those prep days, I’m often in need of learning new ways to grow and develop. How do I show this video during a webinar, and can this software translate the English into French? How do I program my thermostat? Why is that alarm beeping in my car? Not to mention the more important aspects of exercise and eating well and honoring my wife.

Peter reminds us of the most important area of personal development: But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

How do you and I grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ?

We spend time with other followers of Jesus. Christianity is a communal religion, best lived and practiced with others. Join a good church, study the Bible with fellow believers, enjoy meals together and build friendships around your bonds of faith.

Speaking of the Bible, God’s word is essential to growing in the goodwill and awareness of God. The Scriptures carry the authentic words and teachings of Jesus. Lean into them and ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate their truth.

Finally, take up the work of prayer. Ask the Lord to fill you with understanding. God’s favor and familiarity flow from moving closer to him. I find prayer extremely challenging and yet deeply rewarding. Go to the Lord with your desire to grow.

You and I don’t gain anything by taking a passive approach to our personal development, being it losing weight or learning a new skill. Neither does passivity serve our life of faith. Step out towards growth, and deepen your relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 3:18

Photo by Kyle Glenn