Weekly Devotionals - Colt

“Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.” 1 Timothy 4:15

Growth- It happens one step at a time.

On Sunday, Clayton preached for the first time at Thrive. This is also my first time writing the devotional for Thrive. At first, I did not want to do it, but like I said growth happens one step at a time and this felt like my next step.

I got baptized at the age of 8, and ever since then I have been growing in my faith. In the “Stages of Faith” chart Clayton showed us on Sunday, I am branching out of Stage 2-Discipleship (learning) into Stage 3-The Active Life (serving). I serve in Thrive Kids by doing the “welcome”, running Tech, volunteering to pray, and even led the message one time. I am now 10 years old. I have not experienced a tragedy, but I have experienced suffering. Suffering- A negative that can be turned into a positive with God’s help.

“Don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in His suffering…” 1 Peter 4:12-13.

When I was four years old, I was running through a field and got stung by several wasps. From then until I was about 9, any time I saw a wasp I became extremely scared and would panic. This would make me not want to play in tall grass or anywhere where there might be a wasp nest. I love playing outside every day, so this was hard for me. One day I decided that I would train my brain to go out and play even if I was scared. I didn’t want my fear to stop me from having fun. Every time I went outside it felt like a new step towards getting more comfortable with playing outside. Clayton said our past has the potential to keep us from moving forward. I wanted to share this time in my life when I didn’t let my past keep me from moving forward so that I can encourage you to do the same.

Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”

I experienced suffering when I was in pain after being stung, but I was able to get through that one step at a time. Because I went through this, I have been able to help my friends through hard times by encouraging them to keep going even if they’re scared. God can grow you through your suffering, just like he helped me grow. Then, we can go out and help others like Jesus does!

“What is one step you can take this week to grow in your faith—even if it feels a little scary?”