My son likes to eat groundnut. Most times, after coming back from school, he’d say something like; “Daddy, groundnut.” But that’s not the issue. The issue is that I must help him to chew it, but he can chew by himself. I would often tease him; “Learn to chew by yourself.” Every believer needs to learn this truth.
Friend, learn to chew by yourself. For some, it is not a lack of growth. But a lack of responsibility (Hebrews 5:12-14). Some people don’t want to chew God’s word by themselves. They love it when someone explains to them. If you invest time studying and meditating on the word, you would access truth and revelations (Acts 17:10-12).
While it is not a sin to desire milk and processed meals of the word, it is expected that we grow from there (1 Peter 2:2). No parent loves it when the child remains a baby. Growth gladdens the heart of parents as it does the heart of God. Lack of growth is a burden and concern to parents and people who love you (Galatians 4:19).
Growth requires responsibility. There are activities and commitments that grow us (1 Timothy 4:15). Your muscles won’t grow by default. They would grow by discipline. In the same vein, your spiritual muscles won’t grow by default. They would grow by spiritual discipline. What discipline are you giving yourself to (Luke 2:40-52)?
My son knows I’d always listen to him and chew the groundnut for him (Hebrews 5:12). Most times, his mum and siblings won’t answer him. Who’s that person who is indulging you in your journey of maturity? Some people like pastors who won’t stretch them. They love to church by convenience, not commitment (1 Timothy 3:15). They love to be spared.
The person who truly loves you is the one who won’t spare you (Romans 8:32). A true pastor won’t spare you because he loves you. Some people need to intentionally tell their pastor and leader; “Sir, don’t spare me. Help me to grow. Discipline me where necessary. Don’t spoil me.” You cannot outsource your growth (1 Timothy 4:12-16). You need to take personal responsibility.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria