Why Spiritual Growth Takes Time — Matthew 13:31-32 — October 6, 2026

Spiritual growth doesn't happen overnight. Salvation happens in a moment, but becoming more like Christ is the work of a lifetime.

Spiritual growth takes time. You don't have to become a perfect Christian overnight—and discovering that you still have areas where you need to grow doesn't mean God has stopped working in you. 🕊️ Grow Closer to God with Our Journals • The Daily Devotional Bible Study Journal: • The Daily Devotional Prayer Journal: 🎁 Download a Free Bible Study Resource 💌 Get the Daily Devotional Weekly Wrap-Up!

There is a difference between salvation and sanctification. Salvation happens when we place our faith in Jesus Christ.

Sanctification is the lifelong process through which the Holy Spirit continues working in us, helping us grow in obedience, maturity, and Christlikeness. That means we shouldn't interpret every mistake, struggle, or imperfect moment as evidence that God has abandoned us or stopped loving us.

We're still growing. In Matthew 13:31-32, Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven using a mustard seed.

It begins remarkably small and then grows. Our walk with God involves growth too.

As we yield to the Holy Spirit, obey God's Word, submit ourselves to Him, and continue following Jesus, God changes us. What begins small can grow into something He uses in ways we couldn't have imagined at the beginning.

So don't become discouraged because you aren't where you want to be yet. Look at where God has brought you from.

Keep walking with Him. Keep allowing the Holy Spirit to work.

You're a work in progress, and spiritual growth takes time. 📖 Scripture: Matthew 13:31-32 (NIV) 💗 Support this ministry: 👕 Shop Faith-Based Apparel & Gifts: 🎙 Podcast: Apple: Spotify: Purchases through applicable Amazon links help support Daily Devotional Ministries at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!