Measure me

October 1, 2006
''Measure Me''
READ: Ephesians 4:11-16
Jesus increased in wisdom and stature. —Luke 2:52

"Can you measure me today?" Caleb, our paperboy, asked.
It was not the first time he had made that request. A few years ago I had mentioned to him how tall he was getting. Since then, we've often measured his height on the siding of our house. After all this time, he still wants me to measure him.
Measurements can be indicators of growth. And it's a good idea to measure our spiritual growth. For instance: Do I spend time reading God's Word and talking with Him each day? Do I look forward to fellowshiping with the Lord? What "fruit of the Spirit" is apparent in my life? Do I talk about Jesus with people who don't know Him? How am I using my spiritual gift or gifts? Do I have a generous and giving spirit? How much better do I know God today than I did a year ago? These questions are good indicators of spiritual growth.
A child seems to grow up all of a sudden, but it's actually a continual process. Just as Jesus grew in both wisdom and stature, we as believers are to continue to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). We are no longer to be children, but to "grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ" (Eph. 4:14-15). Have you measured yourself lately? —Cindy Hess Kasper—Cindy Hess Kasper-->
The child of God who reads the WordAnd heeds the messages he's heardWill grow in grace from day to dayAnd share with others on life's way. —Hess

Salvation is the miracle of a moment; growth is the labor of a lifetime.