SPIRITUAL PARENTS 1 John 2:13–14 How can we identify a spiritual father or mother? They are believers who have made their relationship with God their main focus. They have realized that life is not about stuff, money, or power; it is about Jesus Christ. That kind of spiritual maturity is not reached with age. There can be old people who may have just started their walk with God, and there may be young folks who have already made their relationship with the Father their priority. Another way we can spot spiritual fathers or mothers is that they no longer put themselves into the spotlight. Their main passion is to minister, teach, or care for somebody else. Just as it is natural for parents to place their attention on their children’s well-being and development, spiritual fathers and mothers try to make sure the next generation of believers can grow up in a loving environment until they are ready to minister to others and do something for God in a greater way. We become models of humbleness and kindness, able to teach and patiently endure evil and truly listen. We give those who want to love Jesus the training and opportunities to continue with the work of God in their own particular style. God is always reminding us how much He loves us. He tells us things like this: “I love you. I got you. I am journeying this path with you. Trust in My forgiveness. Oh, I know it is a battle, but I have conquered the enemy. You just stay here. Stay close. We are going to be victorious. You will never be sinless, but you will sin less. I will begin to use you and your story to minister to others. You will be a spiritual person walking in the maturity of Christ.” Go and minister, and be part of what God has for you. And then somewhere along the way, you will grow up and let God use you to be a blessing to others. Father, help us find time this month to be still before You. Let those of us who need to go beyond spiritual childhood rise up and enter the battle. For those of us who are battling sin, let us have victory and move into ministering to others. And for those who have been taking care of Your people, let us focus on nothing else but You.
OCTOBER 30