A Better Reason to Grow

Set goals. Work hard. Grow. Just make sure you know why.

Theme: A Better Reason to Grow
Verse: "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?" (Galatians 1:10)

The school year has begun. Like January, it can be a time when many people think about making changes and setting new goals for their lives.

Growth can be a good thing. Reading more, learning something new, becoming stronger or faster, or trying a different activity can all be worthwhile. But as we pursue self-improvement, it is important to examine our motivation.

Doing well in school, improving our skills, or becoming healthier are all positive goals. But if we pursue them primarily for praise, recognition, or the approval of others, we may find ourselves chasing something that never truly satisfies.

There will always be someone smarter, faster, stronger, more successful, or more accomplished. If our sense of worth depends on being better than others, we may find that we never quite arrive.

Our identity is found in Christ, not in what the world thinks of us.

God created each of us with unique gifts, experiences, and opportunities. He also gives us room to grow. As we develop our minds, strengthen our bodies, build our character, and learn new skills, we can become better equipped to serve others and make the most of the opportunities God places before us.

Getting better is not about proving that we are valuable. In Christ, our value is already secure. Instead, growth can be an act of stewardship—developing what God has entrusted to us so that we can use it faithfully.

Perhaps becoming a better student will open opportunities to encourage someone else. Becoming healthier may give you more energy to serve. Learning a new skill may allow you to reach people you would otherwise never encounter. Developing greater patience, courage, or compassion may help you represent Jesus more faithfully to the people around you.

So, as you make your “school-year resolutions,” don’t just ask:

“What do I want to improve?”

Also ask:

“Why do I want to improve, and how can this growth help me serve God and others?”

Set goals. Work hard. Learn. Grow. Challenge yourself.

But make sure you are growing for the right reasons. And don’t forget who you are and whose you are.

Your identity is not found in grades, accomplishments, athletic ability, popularity, or the approval of others.

It is found in Jesus.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley