Spiritual growth requires both the clarity of purpose (vision) and the commitment to take actionable steps (decision). The combination of these elements allows us to move forward in our walk with God, deepening our faith and fulfilling His purpose for our lives.
Vision in Spiritual Growth
Scripture:
- Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained;
But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. (Proverbs 29:18) - For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Explanation:
Vision in spiritual growth involves seeing your life from God’s perspective. It is the ability to envision His plans for you, which include peace, purpose, and an abundant relationship with Him. Just as the four lepers in 2 Kings 7 envisioned freedom from starvation, we must first recognize the need for spiritual growth and believe in God’s promises of a fulfilling life in Him.
Application:
- Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal His purpose and vision for your life.
- Reflect on areas where you sense God calling you to grow (e.g., faith, character, ministry).
- Write down the vision you sense God placing on your heart and align it with Scripture.
Decision in Spiritual Growth
Scripture:
- If it is unacceptable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you live; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)
- But prove yourselves doers of the word [actively and continually obeying God’s precepts], and not merely listeners [who hear the word but fail to internalize its meaning], deluding yourselves [by unsound reasoning contrary to the truth] (James 1:22)
Explanation:
Vision without action remains unfulfilled. Decision is the intentional choice to align your life with God’s vision. The lepers decided to leave their comfort zone and take a step toward the unknown, which led to provision and survival. Similarly, spiritual growth often requires stepping out of fear, complacency, or old habits to embrace God’s promises and commands.
Application:
- Identify one area where God is calling you to take action (e.g., consistent Bible study, forgiveness, stepping into ministry).
- Commit to small, consistent steps in obedience to God’s direction.
- Ask for accountability from a trusted friend or mentor to help you stay on track.
The Connection Between Vision and Decision
Scripture:
- So too, faith, if it does not have works [to back it up], is by itself dead [inoperative and ineffective] (James 2:17)
- For we walk by faith, not by sight, [living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises]. (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Explanation:
Without a vision of what spiritual growth looks like, there is no motivation to change. However, without the decision to act in faith, vision remains a dream rather than a reality. The lepers’ decision to act on their vision brought them into the abundance God had already prepared. In the same way, God often waits for us to take a step of faith before revealing His provision and blessings.
Application:
- Reflect on any “visions” you have had in your spiritual life that remain unrealized because of inaction.
- Pray for the courage to take bold steps of faith, trusting that God has already made provision.
- Celebrate small victories as you act on God’s vision for your life, recognizing His faithfulness in the process.
Conclusion
Spiritual growth is a journey that requires both the vision to see what God has for you and the decision to step forward in faith. Just as the four lepers discovered abundance through their actions, we too can experience God’s fullness when we pair vision with faithful decisions. Let us seek God’s guidance for our vision and trust Him as we take the steps He calls us to make.
Disclosure: Many of the linked products and services I recommend are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
