A newborn child is a special treasure! Messy? Loud? But a special treasure, nonetheless. However, we know something is horribly wrong when a child does not grow and mature as he or she should. Arrested development in a physical child is the cause of great concern. The Holy Spirit also reminds us that stunted growth in our spiritual lives should not occur and should be a cause of even greater concern (Hebrews 5:14; 6:1-3; 1 Corinthians 14:20). God does not want us to remain immature! He wants us to continue to grow and mature in the direction of Jesus' righteous character, gracious compassion, and faithful lovingkindness (Colossians 1:28-29). Our Father wants us to crave what is good and what builds others up, and find ourselves growing to become like Jesus. So, what are you going to do today to satisfy your spiritual appetite and grow in the likeness of your LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ?

Mighty God, thank you for loving me and saving me. I really want to mature in your grace. Bless me today as I seek to pattern holy habits and fill myself spiritually with the things that will help me grow. But I know that true growth only comes from you, dear Father, so I ask you to strengthen me by your Spirit as I pursue your character, as displayed by Jesus in his life and ministry. Make me more like Jesus, I pray. Amen.