Balancing Human Effort with Divine Empowerment
In our quest for spiritual growth, we confront the tension between our own striving and the transformative work of God within us. As C.S. Lewis eloquently stated in “Mere Christianity,” yielding to God’s craftsmanship allows us to discover our true selves, intricately fashioned by our Creator. The Bible resounds with this truth, highlighting that our capacity to lead meaningful lives is not of our own making but stems from the grace of God at work in us.
- Philippians 2:13 – “for the one bringing forth in you both the desire and the effort—for the sake of his good pleasure—is God.”
- This verse underscores that our very desires and efforts for spiritual growth are ultimately inspired and empowered by God Himself. 2 Corinthians 3:5 – “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as if it were coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God.”
- Here, Paul emphasizes that any competence we possess to fulfill our purpose is derived from God, not from our own abilities or efforts. John 15:5 – “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me—and I in him—bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing.” This profound statement from Jesus Himself highlights the indispensable nature of our connection to Him for spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
As believers, our journey of growth involves continually relying on God’s goodness and responding to His leading. Through putting our faith into action, we not only deepen our understanding of God’s character but also become conduits of His love and grace in the world. It’s like starting a new job; you can read the manual, but you learn the most when you engage with your workspace, meet your coworkers, and learn the tricks of the trade. The same is true for faith. When we actively engage with God and join Him in His work, our faith becomes alive and transformative. Faith in our hearts and minds is essential, but when it manifests in our daily choices and relationships, it becomes faith in action! This active faith shapes our hearts and minds for the present and future, teaching us in unique and lasting ways. James 2:17 reminds us that faith without works is dead, emphasizing the importance of action alongside faith. Similarly, Matthew 25:31-46 illustrates the consequences of serving or neglecting others. Those who actively serve are commended, while those who neglect others face judgment. These verses highlight the vital connection between faith and action and the significance of serving others in the Christian life. Author and blogger Amiee Joseph puts it this way:
‘We love the idea of consistent time alone with God until we have to give up an hour of sleep, or a workout, or a favorite pastime to secure it. We love the notion of life-on-life ministry until we have to minister to a hurting soul or bear the burden of another’s mess during inconvenient times. We love supporting worldwide missions until it cuts into our Starbucks budget or hinders us from keeping up with the Joneses. We love the idea of discipling our children until it requires hard conversations or consistency to the point of altering preferences and schedules.’ These challenges reflect the tension between our aspirations and the sacrifices required to live out our faith. Yet, as we navigate this tension, let’s lean on God’s grace, knowing that our efforts are not in vain. With perseverance and reliance on His strength, we can continue to walk in faith, trusting that He will guide us every step of the way.”
Amiee Joseph
In Christianity, there’s a difference between growing in faith and getting into Heaven. It’s like having a ticket to a fantastic theme park versus learning to see, taste, smell, and feel all its attractions once you’re inside. Salvation, is entering into a close friendship with Jesus, achieved by believing in Jesus’ sacrifice. Once you’re in, you’re fully accepted, flaws and all—God isn’t expecting perfection, it is why He came in the first place! Once a child of God, we then have the privilege of cooperating with the Holy Spirit’s work in our souls and others.
Now, about morality: it’s like having our own rulebook for how to live. We might think we’re doing great, but when compared to God’s love and power, it’s like playing in a puddle when there’s an ocean out there. Trying to be perfect by our standards is like tossing a cup of water into the ocean and expecting the same water back—it just doesn’t work. Instead, we’re invited to experience something far greater: spending time and words with God, who will never leave or forsake us. He’s always alive, always working, and always rooting for our highest good.
As we embark on this journey of surrender and growth, let us remember the profound truth encapsulated in the words of C.S. Lewis:
“There are no ordinary people.” Each interaction, each moment, carries the weight of eternity, shaping us into creatures of everlasting splendor or immortal horrors. May we navigate our relationships and endeavors with the reverence and humility befitting this reality, knowing that through God’s transformative work within us, we are destined for greatness beyond imagination.
Bibliography:
- C.S. Lewis, “Mere Christianity”
- C.S. Lewis, “The Weight of Glory”
- All Scripture quotations are taken from the New English Translation (NET) Bible.
- Joseph, Aimee. “Effort Is Not the Opposite of Grace.” The Gospel Coalition, The Gospel Coalition, 15 Sept. 2016, www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/effort-is-not-the-opposite-of-grace/. Accessed 23 Mar. 2024.
