Now and then I've felt like no matter what I do I can't make any REAL progress in my own growth. It's so difficult to see it in ourselves sometimes, especially in the short-term. But there are some things that will create growth, even if we can't see it happening. And it all starts with what we choose to believe. For the Christain, that means choosing to believe the Bible.
Faith Is the Spark
“Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
—Romans 10:17
You can’t grow in faith without hearing God’s Word. Not just hearing it with your ears, but letting it settle deep into your heart. The Bible isn’t just a spiritual textbook—it’s the living voice of God calling you forward. Every time you open His Word, you're giving your soul a chance to believe again. And every time you believe, you're opening the door to lasting change and hope for the future.
Why Faith Matters So Much
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
—Hebrews 11:6
We often think growth comes from effort—and there is a place for effort—but according to Hebrews 11:6, faith is the starting point of any real relationship with God. Faith tells us that God is real, that He’s near, and that He cares enough to reward those who seek Him.
Some people think that Christians are naive, that we practice "blind optimism". But it's more than that. Faith in God comes from confidence in God’s character and promises. When you believe that He’s with you and ready to meet you where you are, growth becomes possible—not because you’re strong, but because you’re trusting the One who is.
One problem we have is understanding life and the things we experience. We judge circumstances we are in based on our perspective, so we need a guide to help us see things from the right perspective. That's how God's word fits with life: It becomes the lens through which we see reality and the criteria by which we make decisions and judgments about life.
Faith Unlocks Forward Motion
Faith doesn’t usually feel dramatic. In fact, it often doesn't "feel" at all because it is based in evidence and knowledge. Sometimes it’s just the quiet decision to read one verse and believe it. Or to pray one more time when you’re not sure it’ll make a difference. Or to take a small step of obedience when you’re unsure of the outcome.
But over time, these moments of belief build momentum.
- A renewed mind
- A softened heart
- A stronger will
- A deeper peace
- A clearer purpose
Every spiritual step begins with faith.
Final Thought: Let Faith Be the First Step
You don’t need to have everything figured out to start growing. But you do need to believe that God speaks, God sees, and God rewards. Growth isn’t just about fixing yourself—it’s about trusting the One who is already working in you.
So if you’re feeling stuck, go back to the basics: Open your Bible. Listen. Believe.
That’s where growth begins.
What helps you grow in faith when you’re feeling stuck?
I’d love to hear from you—leave a comment and share your thoughts or your story. And if this encouraged you today, consider sending it to a friend who might need that same reminder: Growth begins with faith.
Get encouragement every Friday!
Each week, I send out practical devotionals, insights for spiritual and emotional growth, and reminders of God’s love — right to your inbox.
Each week, I send out practical devotionals, insights for spiritual and emotional growth, and reminders of God’s love — right to your inbox.
Let’s keep walking this journey together.
