Growing in God’s Grace 

“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

2 Corinthians 3:18

I’m a stickler when it comes to measuring things, whether it’s a photo collage on a wall or measuring ingredients for a yummy recipe. And when my birthday rolls around each year, I see it as my measured mark in time. So, I ask myself, “How have I grown in God’s grace over the last year?” Yes, I believe it’s something that can actually be measured! 

My yardstick for determining my growth in Christ is reflected in these words from J. C. Ryle. He says, “When I speak of growth in grace, I mean an increase in the degree, size, strength, vigor, and power of the graces that the Spirit plants in our hearts… I mean simply this—that his sense of sin is becoming deeper, his faith stronger, his hope brighter, his love more extensive, and his spiritual-mindedness more marked. He feels more of the power of godliness in his heart. He manifests more of it in his life.” (J.C. Ryle, Holiness: Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties, and Roots.) 

So, as I get ready to mark the date of my birth, I take inventory. Is my sense of sin deeper than it was last year? Is my hope brighter? Are my prayers more fervent? Do I sense more of God’s power in my heart? Do I find myself more patient in irritating situations? Am I quicker to forgive than I was this time last year? Do I yield easily in conversations and look out for the interests of others?  

Something different usually happens in our lives from year to year, and it’s helpful to know if we are on the ‘upward side’ or the ‘downward spiral.’ Oh, how I want my life to show growth—it’s why you often hear me say “Onward and Upward!” We really can fundamentally change for the better. But like 2 Corinthians 3 tells us, holiness is not about just doing more God-honoring things and doing fewer sinful things. As we behold the Lord Jesus through prayer and study of his Word, we are transformed into his likeness every day. That’s amazing!  

Father God, thank you that as I read your Word, meditate on the cross of Jesus, and speak with you in prayer, that you will transform me with your amazing grace. Help me to grow in grace this year as I behold your glory. I want to be made into the person you want me to be!