The Law of Process: Growth Is Not an Event (Colossians 2:1-7)

Extracted from The Maxwell Leadership Bible

Spiritual growth doesn't "just happen," any more than climbing a mountain "just happens." You don't wander up a mountain and surprise yourself when you reach the top. Growth results from hard work.

Paul compares maturing a person to growing a plant (Col. 2:6,7). When you take seed, soil, sunshine, and water, and put them together, you don't get a plant overnight. You need time. Paul knows that the Colossians' roots won't grow deep overnight. So he reminds them of what must happen for growth to occur:

1. Labor (v. 1) - Someone has to work.
2. Stretching (v. 2) - You have to stretch for more.
3. Learning (vv. 2,3) - Knowledge must be consumed.
4. Focus (v. 4) - You cannot drift or get distracted.
5. Accountability (v. 5) - Growth accelerates when someone watches.
6. Building on the past (v. 6) - Growth always uses past truth.
7. Application (v. 6) - Growth solidifies when you practice what you know.
8. Gratitude (v. 7) - Give joyful thanksgiving for past blessings.