In a world full of unending activities in both secular and ministry daily demands, it is very simple for an individual to lose track of personal development and self-growth. The reality of today’s life is a continued stream of sporadic and unending activities that demand one’s all, often at the expense of pausing to reflect on personal growth. With daily demands always seeking to achieve outcomes in both secular and ministry contexts, it is easy for us to neglect the practice of self-checking our personal development. In many instances, people end up doing everything just to complete tasks rather than to accomplish meaningful and transformed work, because they themselves are less developed.
Effective transformation in daily tasks, work commitments, and our walk with the Lord is achieved when an individual takes initiative in owning personal growth and development from within. As Christians, we are called by God to take personal steps that allow us to grow spiritually and develop ourselves in different areas of life so that our presence in both secular and ministry contexts will make an impact in a way that glorifies God, regardless of our status or position in our path of duty and in different spheres of life.
Apostle Paul in Romans 12:2 challenges those in Christ not to conform to the pattern of the world but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind. Paul was aware of the ways in which the world can easily shape us into something we were never meant to be, and so he calls us to pursue a renewed mindset. For this transformation to happen, every person should daily desire to walk in step with the Spirit, totally depending on God for guidance and wisdom in all parts of life that need to be shaped, transformed, or renewed. There must always be a willing heart that desires to grow from within.
Brothers and sisters, the reality of this journey with the Lord should excite us with the truth that we should not wait for a push to achieve growth, but rather ignite a flame within ourselves that seeks to grow and be defined as committed followers of Christ. This calls for a heart that understands that developing the leader within is not only about positional leadership, but about spiritual maturity, character formation, and becoming more effective vessels for God’s Kingdom wherever we are. Personal growth and self-improvement begin within, through the renewal of our minds and by being consistent and faithful in small things. This inward growth will then lead to public fruitfulness in our daily actions.
As I conclude this encouragement on personal development as a personal commitment, it is important for us to note that we will continue to learn from the journey, daily reflecting on how God continuously shapes us through our experiences and contexts. We need to allow God to lead this journey of personal growth and development to spring from within, without waiting for a title or platform to ignite it. Clifton Anderson, a singer, once said: “Every great accomplishment starts with a first step. No matter how big your goals are. No matter how great your plans are. No matter how immense your dreams are. It all begins with a single step. Take that step today.”
May God continue to bless us in every step and stage of growth in our daily walk with the Lord.