From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Birth is only the beginning for a newborn baby; that child is not meant to be a baby forever but to grow and become strong and eventually reach adulthood. The same is true for us. When we first come to Christ through receiving His salvation, we are spiritual newborns, but we are not meant to remain that way. God’s plan is for us to grow strong in our faith and become mature in our understanding of God’s Word and God’s will for our lives.

How does this happen? We must be convinced that spiritual growth is God’s plan for us. We must take steps to grow strong in the knowledge of His truth. We do this by consuming the “pure spiritual milk” God has provided for us. What is that milk? It is the Word of God. Through reading and studying Scripture we learn about Him. God has also given us the privilege of prayer and fellowship with others. If any of those—God’s Word, prayer, fellowship—is missing, our growth will be stunted.

“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow” (1 Peter 2:2).

The pure milk of God’s Word should be part of our soul’s daily diet. Just like our physical bodies, we sometimes neglect the things necessary to have a healthy spiritual life. We must pray and ask God to give us a desire to learn of Him and to obey Him so that our relationship with Him will deepen.

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

Have you received the free gift of salvation? Pray now.