Passages Devotional: Growth Environment
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”Acts 2:42
Growth is influenced by environment. Plants need fertile soil, fresh water and plenty of sunlight to grow to maturity. But what do new believers need for healthy spiritual growth? What is their ideal environment?
Acts 2 recounts the experiences of the first believers after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. They flourished in an environment of growth. But it didn’t happen by accident. In Acts 2:42 we read that they devoted themselves to “the apostle’s teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” They spent quality time together, centered around Jesus and sharing life with one another.
In the same manner, believers today grow by being in the right environment. Activities can be helpful, but a growth environment is key. Prayer, Bible study, and fellowship are critical elements in a healthy growth environment. A mentor helps ensure younger believers are in an environment for growth.
Thought
The best environment for growth is filled with grace and truth.
Take a Step
Think of the new believers you know. Evaluate their environment for growth. Are they getting what they need to grow to maturity? If not, what can you do to help provide a better growth environment?
What is one thing you can do to help the new believers you know to have a better growth environment in which to follow the Lord?
Bonus
READ: Acts 2:42-47 >>
And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.← Previous
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Day 5: Priority Connections
