Updates from Jason Sparks

Test Everything: How Critical Thinking Fuels Spiritual Growth

Sat, 03 May 2025 17:08:00 CDT

In a world brimming with information and opinions, critical thinking is vital for personal and spiritual growth. It’s not about negativity but about cultivating wisdom and discernment. Scripture urges us to “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21) and to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). Critical thinking involves slowing down, examining ideas against God’s Word, and resisting hasty judgments. This discernment anchors our faith, sharpens wisdom, and fosters humility. By embracing curiosity, patience, teachability, and boldness, we grow stronger in Christ. Skills like Bible literacy, active listening, reflection, and dialogue further hone our discernment. Growth emerges when truth meets humility, transforming us into wiser, more anchored believers. So, when faced with new ideas, don’t just react—test them.

The Key to Growth: Openness and a Willingness to Learn

Fri, 02 May 2025 19:14:20 CDT

Why do we stop growing spiritually or emotionally? Sometimes it's pride; other times, it's discouragement. In this post, we explore a surprising psychological experiment and what it reveals about “learned helplessness”—and how a teachable, open heart can change everything.

The Growth Power of Humility

Thu, 01 May 2025 17:38:00 CDT

Humility is more than modesty—it’s the doorway to growth. Pride blocks transformation, but a teachable heart invites God to do what we can’t do alone.

Unlock Spiritual Growth with Faith in God’s Word

Thu, 01 May 2025 16:17:05 CDT

Feeling stuck in your spiritual journey? Discover how a single spark of faith, grounded in God’s Word, can ignite lasting growth. Dive into this inspiring reflection on trusting God’s promises and take the first step toward a renewed heart and clearer purpose.

Four Shifts That Deepen Your Spiritual Life

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:12:00 CDT

What does it mean to live spiritually in a physical world? Colossians 3 offers four key shifts—from focusing on what is seen to what is eternal—that help us align with God’s reality and live from a place of strength, clarity, and purpose.

Make Change Stick: The Biblical Path to Lasting Change

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 13:05:00 CDT

My dad couldn’t quit dipping tobacco until something shifted—not just in his habits, but in his mind. Real change starts with transformation. Philippians 4 shows us that God isn’t just after behavior change—He’s after a renewed mind that leads to peace, unity, and purpose.

God’s Wisdom for When You’re Not Enough

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:52:00 CDT

On a mission trip in rural Africa, I was asked to speak to widows, expecting to meet elderly women. Instead, I found young mothers, all under 35, carrying babies and bearing the weight of being AIDS widows—many facing their own mortality. Overwhelmed by inadequacy, I spoke of God’s love and saw hope kindle in their eyes. That moment taught me: true wisdom isn’t about my ability but about trusting God’s. James 3:13 says, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.” Whether facing those widows or my own anxiety today, I’m learning to lean on God’s wisdom, not my own, through humble, faithful steps. What challenges are you facing? Let’s trust His wisdom together.

When Perfectionism Steals Your Joy

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 20:47:00 CDT

Chasing perfection often leaves us angry, exhausted, and missing the moments that matter most. Jesus gently reminded Martha — and reminds us — that only one thing is truly needed: to sit at His feet and receive His love. Lay down the burden of "good enough" and embrace His peace today.

Who’s Sitting on the Throne of Your Heart?

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 16:51:11 CDT

Growing Through Adversity: Joseph’s Story and Yours

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:36:00 CDT