The Do’s and Don’ts of Spiritual Growth

Since we are born again, we ought to embrace a new standard of living (2:1).

Don’ts (2:1)

Malice – Premeditated evil toward another that is unchallenged indicates a dangerous condition of one’s heart. 

Deceit – As people who have received the truth, we should not be characterized by information fabrication.

Hypocrisy – We cannot criticize the sins of others while ignoring our own or those we support.

Envy – The desire to have what belongs to another means you are ungrateful with what God has given you.

Slander – Sharing derogatory information, regardless of legitimacy, to harm another indicates one’s own insecurity.

Do’s (2:2-3)

No matter how long you’ve been following Jesus, never lose your desperation for Him.

Crave the purity of Scripture so that you require no additives or preservatives.

Embrace your salvation as the starting line of discipleship rather than the finishing line of expectation.

Consistently considering God’s goodness will make you eager to seek it out.

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To grow spiritually: 1) do seek ongoing biblical change, and 2) don’t allow your emotions to hurt others whom God loves.